A Cincinnati judge has ordered former Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen to provide a written account of why he left the company in March, potentially exposing details about his abrupt departure. The move is related to a lawsuit involving singer Jewel and her business partner against Kroger over its annual Wellness Festival.
Jewel’s lawyers claim that McMullen was involved in launching the event and are seeking damages due to alleged contractual problems. They argue that McMullen’s resignation could be relevant to his credibility as a witness if he testifies in court.
McMullen’s legal team has pushed back, calling the questions “completely irrelevant” and “embarrassing.” However, Judge Christian Jenkins has ordered him to submit a sworn explanation by August 8. The contents of McMullen’s account will depend on the judge’s ruling about its relevance to the case.
In March, McMullen stepped down as CEO after more than a decade leading the company. He forfeited $11 million in unvested equity and bonuses as part of his departure. His resignation was linked to an investigation into his “personal conduct,” but details have been scarce.
Expert Eric Chaffee notes that it’s “somewhat invasive” to probe a CEO’s departure, but Kroger’s description of the resignation as related to “business ethics” may make it easier to justify the line of inquiry. Courts favor openness, and attorneys often try to test an individual’s credibility to determine their behavior in an ethical manner.
The contents of McMullen’s account will be kept private unless the judge decides they are relevant to the case. The court’s ruling on this matter is yet to be determined.
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/08/13/business/ex-kroger-ceo-ordered-to-reveal-embarrassing-details-in-jewel-suit