Mackenzie Phillips is revisiting her One Day at a Time years with honesty and humor. The 66-year-old actress, who played Julie Cooper on the popular sitcom alongside Valerie Bertinelli, shared insights into her past with Fox News Digital. Phillips recalls a surprising memory that reflects the behind-the-scenes reality of the show.
“During lunch breaks, Valerie and I would head to my house, swim, drink wine, and use cocaine,” Phillips admitted, highlighting that Bertinelli has openly discussed this time. Despite their playful camaraderie, Phillips emphasized that Bertinelli did not struggle with addiction like she did.
Phillips detailed the presence of drugs behind the scenes. “We used coke together in the dressing room,” she stated, “but I was the one who got caught. Thank God for that,” she remarked, acknowledging how this experience was a turning point for her.
The One Day at a Time sitcom, which aired from 1975 to 1984, featured Phillips and Bertinelli as on-screen sisters. Phillips played rebellious Julie, while Bertinelli portrayed the younger Barbara Cooper. Their off-screen friendship persisted long after the show ended, though it faced challenges due to Phillips’ addiction.
During a podcast appearance in 2022, Phillips reflected on her enduring bond with Bertinelli: “We grew up as teenagers on the show and now, as older women, we share a strong connection and love for each other.” Addiction, however, strained this friendship for years. Phillips recounted times she reached out to Bertinelli during her early sobriety, not expecting an immediate response but hoping to mend their relationship.
In April 2025, Phillips celebrated Bertinelli’s 65th birthday with a heartfelt social media post, illustrating their ongoing friendship. For Phillips, her ability to discuss her challenging past openly is a testament to her resilience. She explained that faith and perspective ground her today, helping her navigate her journey.
Phillips cherishes her past experiences, despite the difficulties. “Someone expressed pity for my past,” she recalled. “But everything I went through, though challenging, contributed to who I am now.” Phillips does not wish to erase her past, as it shaped her identity.
Having been vocal about addiction and recovery, Phillips, daughter of the late musician John Phillips, detailed her life in her memoirs. Resilience, she noted, is central to her journey, helping her cultivate strong family bonds.
Phillips has shared her recovery journey with others, working in the addiction and recovery field. She believes purpose is vital to her continuous recovery, fulfilling her role as a dedicated employee at Breathe Life Healing Centers. Her recent acting roles and counseling work reflect her commitment to both her career and helping others.
Reflecting on her past roles, Phillips explained that playing a character with substance issues never triggered her. Still, people often connect her the most closely to her painful history.
When addressing misconceptions about her story, Phillips clarified her past statements regarding her father. “I was groomed, and there was no consent in the dynamics,” she said, recognizing her evolved understanding over time.
Phillips acknowledged that survivors often protect those who harmed them, complicating public perception. She considered writing another book to address parts of her story left untold.
Phillips continues to inspire through her works and transparency about her life, underscoring her resilience and faith.
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