While it was widely known that drugs played a role in the Phillips sisters’ upbringing, many were shocked to learn that Mackenzie was also sexually abused by their father, performer John Phillips. In her 2009 memoir, “High On Arrival,” the former “Orange Is the New Black” star claimed that John had sex with her for the first time when she was 19 and heavily under the influence. It occurred the night before she wed now ex-husband Jeff Sessler. The inappropriate relationship continued for a decade. She finally told her sister, Chynna Phillips, in 1997.
Bijou Phillips admitted that she knew about the sex acts with their father since she was a teenager. However, Bijou felt that Mackenzie’s drug history may have distorted her recollection of events. Nevertheless, Mackenzie told talk show host Oprah Winfrey that her decision to speak out about John strained their family. However, in the years since the explosive book’s release, the siblings began to heal from the shocking revelations.
During a February 2022 episode of the “Behind The Velvet Rope” podcast, Mackenzie confirmed that they’d even been communicating regularly. “We all text, and we’re all in touch. And we spend time together whenever we can,” she shared. Their bond is apparent in occasional photos on Instagram. An April 2020 selfie shows all three sisters smiling next to one another, with Mackenzie writing: “I miss these two remarkable women.”
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
Post source: The List
