Mackenzie Phillips Reflects on Her Departure from ‘One Day at a Time’

Mackenzie Phillips, well-known for her role in “One Day at a Time,” looked back on the event that marked her exit from the show. During her appearance at Fanboy Expo Knoxville in Tennessee, she discussed how a “morals clause” in her contract contributed to her abrupt departure.

“One Day at a Time” brought Phillips into the public eye alongside co-stars Bonnie Franklin and Valerie Bertinelli. However, behind the success, Phillips faced a battle with addiction. This struggle led to more stringent terms in her contract. She recently spoke about these issues at an event.

According to Phillips, while all cast members had a morals clause, hers had additional conditions. She mentioned that the show’s producers reserved the right to conduct a urinalysis if they suspected that she was under the influence. These measures ultimately led to her being written off the show after the producers enforced this clause.

“One day, I was asleep on the couch during lunch hour,” Phillips recounted. “I was woken by a co-executive producer, Patricia Fass Palmer, and told I needed to visit a doctor for a test.”

Despite requesting some time, knowing the short time it takes for cocaine to leave the system, her request was denied. She was asked to gather her belongings and leave the show. As a result, she left “One Day at a Time” in 1980, though she returned briefly before leaving for good in 1983.

Phillips has candidly shared her struggles with addiction over the years. In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, she spoke about her time on the set, including participating in activities with co-star Valerie Bertinelli during breaks.

“Valerie and I would drive to my house during lunch, swim, drink wine, and use cocaine,” Phillips said, noting that Bertinelli has also commented on these activities.

The actress added that drug use was common behind the scenes. Her capture marked a turning point, for which she expresses gratitude as it helped her confront her addiction.

In discussing what keeps her grounded now, Phillips credits her faith and the understanding of the impact her history has had on her. “What keeps me grounded is my faith and just knowing how empowered my history has made me,” Phillips shared.

Phillips emphasizes that her past, even with its struggles, has shaped her identity today. She expressed this sentiment both in interviews and in her memoir “High on Arrival,” as well as her book “Hopeful Healing,” exploring themes of recovery.

Working in addiction recovery, Phillips assists others dealing with similar issues. Aside from acting, she has served as a counselor and manager at Breathe Life Healing Centers.