NEW YORK, Dec 4: After a lengthy search, Meghan Markle has decided to appoint herself as the CEO of her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which is set to launch in 2025. The Duchess of Sussex, 43, had been interviewing potential candidates for the role for several months but struggled to find the right fit, according to Page Six.

Markle initially announced the brand’s upcoming launch earlier this year, but by August, it was reported that she was facing difficulties in finding a suitable CEO. “She is the CEO of American Riviera Orchard,” a source told Page Six’s Richard Eden. Another insider confirmed that the search for a CEO had not been successful.

Behind the scenes, sources claim the brand had become chaotic, with one Hollywood insider describing the situation as a “s–t show.” Another noted that Markle had been “keeping her cards close to her chest” about the project.

Despite the setbacks, it appears that 2025 will be a pivotal year for Markle, as she has been focused on preparing the brand for its debut in the first few months of the year. Although she revealed her business venture in March, details about the brand’s release date or products remain undisclosed.

Additionally, Markle has encountered ongoing trademark issues, leading her to request a three-month extension from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to secure the brand’s trademark. If she misses the deadline, she will have to restart the process.

Her extension request came shortly after rival brand Harry & David filed a protest against the name "American Riviera Orchard," claiming it was too similar to their “Royal Riviera” line. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office also previously rejected her application, warning that geographical names could not be trademarked.

Earlier this year, Markle and Prince Harry also faced another blow when their chief of staff, Josh Kettler, resigned after just three months. This marked the 18th resignation from their team in four years.