From Marcia Brady to Resilience: Maureen McCormick's Inspiring Journey
FROM BRADY BUNCH SWEETHEART TO WELLS OF DESPAIR: MAUREEN McCORMICK'S RISE AND FALL
In a shocking tale of Hollywood's dark underbelly, Maureen McCormick, the once-beloved star of TV's iconic Brady Bunch, revealed her devastating struggles with addiction and depression in a heart-wrenching memoir that left fans reeling. The 69-year-old actress, who captivated audiences as Marcia Brady at just 13 years old, has since found redemption and is now living a quiet life outside Los Angeles with her husband of four decades.
McCormick's journey from child star to substance abuse victim began soon after the show's conclusion in 1974. The series, which followed the lives of the blended Brady family, catapulted her to fame, but behind-the-scenes, she was struggling with the pressures of fame and a dark secret: her addiction to cocaine.
"It was like a rollercoaster ride," McCormick confessed in her 2008 memoir, Here's The Story: Surviving Marcia Brady and Finding My True Voice. "I thought I could handle it, but it quickly spiralled out of control." Her addiction became so severe that she admits to trading sex for drugs and battling bulimia, a shocking revelation that sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
McCormick's marriage to fellow actor Michael Cummings was put to the test as her addiction ravaged their relationship. In a stark ultimatum, Cummings gave her an impossible choice: get sober or face divorce. McCormick credits her husband with saving her life, saying, "He gave me the strength I needed to fight my demons."
But what fans may not know is that Michael's own career took off around the same time as Maureen's struggles. As a talented actor in his own right, he appeared on hit TV shows like Criminal Minds and Fresh Off the Boat, solidifying their union as one of Hollywood's most enduring power couples.
Today, McCormick and Cummings are living proof that love can conquer all, even the darkest of addictions. The couple celebrated 40 years of marriage this March and have been spotted on numerous occasions enjoying quiet days out in Los Angeles, including a recent outing to the exclusive luxury grocery store, Erewhon.
During their errands, McCormick looked radiant, sporting high-waisted jeans, a bright yellow blouse, and white sneakers. Her husband affectionately wrapped his arms around her waist as they strolled through the upscale market. The pair even stopped by Follow Your Heart Market & Café for lunch, where McCormick shared a sweet kiss with a male friend before rejoining her husband.
McCormick's road to recovery was long and arduous, but she has finally found peace. In an interview with thescholarlynote.com, she spoke candidly about her journey, saying, "I've learned that addiction is a disease, not a moral failing. I'm grateful for my second chance at life and my loving husband who stood by me through thick and thin."
As the Brady Bunch celebrates its 50th anniversary, fans are taking a closer look at the cast's post-show lives. McCormick's story serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of addiction and the importance of seeking help when needed.
In recent years, McCormick has made appearances on TV shows like Dancing with the Stars, but her focus now is on living life to the fullest and cherishing time with loved ones. As she looks back on her incredible journey, McCormick says, "I'm proud of who I am today, and I'm grateful for every up and down that led me here."
The Brady Bunch Cast: Where Are They Now?
- Robert Reed (Mike Brady) passed away in 1992
- Florence Henderson (Carol Brady) died in 2016
- Barry Williams (Greg), Eve Plumb (Jan), Susan Olsen (Cindy), Mike Lookinland (Bobby), and Christopher Knight (Peter) have all gone on to pursue various careers
Maureen McCormick's Journey: A Timeline
- 1969-1974: Stars as Marcia Brady in The Brady Bunch
- 1974: Show ends, but McCormick struggles with addiction and depression
- 1985: Marries Michael Cummings at the height of her addiction
- 2008: Publishes memoir, Here's The Story: Surviving Marcia Brady and Finding My True Voice
- 2016: Appears as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars
- Present day: Lives with husband Michael in Los Angeles, free from addiction and depression
