LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a recent conversation on Chynna Phillips Baldwin's YouTube channel, 'One Day at a Time' star Mackenzie Phillips delves into the highly controversial decade-long incestuous relationship she had with her late father, John Phillips.
The 64-year-old actress and substance abuse counselor, known for her role in the popular sitcom, sheds light on the complex dynamics of their family and her journey toward forgiveness.
Mackenzie Phillips opens up about her father's abusive behavior
In her 2011 memoir, 'High On Arrival: A Memoir', Mackenzie first detailed the abusive affair, revealing the dark side of the 'Mamas & the Papas' frontman whom she viewed as a "genius." During the candid conversation with her half-sister Chynna, Mackenzie acknowledges her father's unpredictable nature, describing him as "something else."
She also discloses that John, who died in March 2001, first raped her on the night before her wedding at the age of 19. “And I get a lot of criticism and a lot of trolling online for having forgiveness in my heart. Forgiveness because forgiving is for me, not for the other person,” said Mackenzie.
Mackenzie Phillips on navigating sobriety and past struggles
The 'American Graffiti', star who battled substance abuse and went through rehabilitation numerous times before achieving sobriety, clarifies that forgiveness doesn't imply agreement with the actions being forgiven.
“Forgiving doesn’t mean I co-sign or agree with what I’m forgiving you for — or him for," she asserted.
“It’s very complicated. It’s very, very complicated,” she added. “And yet, I am at peace,” she added.
The actress admits the initial tension her revelation caused within the family but highlights the eventual reconciliation, particularly with Chynna.
The conversation touches on the difficulties of discussing “the conditions of [their] childhoods,” with Mackenzie expressing guilt. Chynna, married to actor Billy Baldwin, reassures Mackenzie of her genuine support, acknowledging, “When I stood by you, I meant it with all my heart, you know? I really did. And I believed you. And I want you to know that I was proud of you for coming out [with your story] … even though it was painful for everybody.”
Chynna tells Mackenzie that they are among the “most dysfunctional Hollywood families," referencing half-sister Bijou Phillips' recent divorce from Scientologist and convicted rapist Danny Masterson.
