Fletch Turns 40: Chevy Chase Marks Dual Milestone
Comedian unveils a limited anniversary box honoring his cult role as he nears his birthday
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
Read full bio of Reshmi Das
Image: Instagram
Legendary Role Reaches 40
In a playful Instagram announcement, comedy legend Chevy Chase celebrated the 40th anniversary of his breakout film role as investigative journalist Irwin “M. Fletch” Fletcher. The 1985 cult classic, based on Gregory Mcdonald’s novel, hit theaters on February 8, 1985, and quickly became a fan favorite for its offbeat humor and Chase’s effortless charm.
On his official Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ-K5U0O1UL/), @chevychase wrote: “Fletch turns 40 at the end of this month. To celebrate we put together a special anniversary box. Link in bio. By the way I happen to be turning 40 this month as well! 😘❤️” The tongue-in-cheek quip earned laughs across social media, with followers noting that Chase—whose career spans more than five decades—was clearly having fun with the numbers.
Limited Box Set Release
To honor the milestone, a deluxe anniversary box set has been assembled, featuring a newly remastered Blu-ray of Fletch, exclusive behind-the-scenes photos, collectible lobby cards, and a booklet of personal anecdotes from the cast and crew. Fans can pre-order the limited edition package via the link in Chase’s bio; the set ships later this spring and is already generating buzz among retro-comedy enthusiasts.
According to the product description, the anniversary box highlights restored footage with Dolby Atmos audio, plus deleted scenes that never made the original cut. Chase’s post encouraged collectors and movie buffs alike to snag one before the limited run sells out.
Star’s Playful Birthday Quip
Although Chevy Chase turns 80 this October, he couldn’t resist joking about hitting the big “4-0” alongside his character. Born on October 8, 1943, in New York City, Chase rose to fame as one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live in 1975. His signature Weekend Update segments and physical comedy made him a household name well before Fletch cemented his leading-man status.
Fans responded with fond memories of his unforgettable one-liners and pratfalls. “Best journalist ever,” wrote one follower. Another joked, “Still waiting for Fletch 2 with you back in the trench coat.” (That sequel, Fletch Lives, arrived in 1989 but never matched the original’s critical acclaim.)
Looking Ahead: New Projects
Chevy Chase isn’t resting on anniversary laurels. Last December, he teased his next big venture—a CNN Films documentary titled I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, set to premiere in 2026. In an Instagram post (https://www.instagram.com/p/DJpB-zPOPKn/), he wrote, “The comedy legend, unfiltered. I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not — coming 2026 from CNN Films.” The teaser suggests a candid exploration of Chase’s storied career, from early improv days to blockbuster successes.
The doc promises interviews with collaborators, behind-the-scenes footage, and Chase’s own reflections on the highs and lows of fame. Industry insiders say the film will offer rare access to the comedian known for guarding his privacy—a treat for long-time fans.
Legacy Of A Cult Favorite
More than just a box set launch or birthday gag, this moment highlights the enduring appeal of Chase’s Fletch persona. The film’s satirical take on 1980s media, its sharp dialogue, and Chase’s laid-back delivery continue to influence modern comedies. New generations discovering Fletch on streaming platforms are fueling demand for collectible merchandise and anniversary editions.
Whether fans are reliving the original laugh-out-loud moments or eagerly awaiting Chase’s documentary, one thing is clear: Fletch’s 40th and Chevy’s playful celebration have brought renewed attention to a defining chapter in comedy history.
As the special box set arrives in homes this spring and Chase’s birthday looms, fans worldwide are raising a virtual toast to the man in the trench coat—celebrating four decades of laughs and looking forward to the stories he’ll share next.
Read full bio of Reshmi Das
