Also known as Fletch F. Fletch, IM Fletcher writes for a newspaper under the moniker, Jane Doe. And it isn't the food section.
Fletch is a reporter who goes to some lengths to crack the story, and usually drives his editor (Frank) mad with his conception of a story's deadline.

Troubled by his ex-wife's divorce lawyer, Fletch is an avid Lakers fan, and never seems to win in the sweepstakes.

Living in a palatial-imitation apartment block, Fletch constatntly lives with the threat of the aforementioned divorce lawyer, Gilette, arresting his wages, Fletch sometimes has to sneak in and out of his apartment via the fire escape.

The character of Fletch was created by author Gregory McDonald, from his series of novels. The novels themselves are extremely entertaining and funny, and Stu certainly recommends them to fellow Fletch fans, should you find that you have not yet read them. Indeed, they are still funny and entertaining even if you have read them.

The movie 'Fletch' was roughly drafted from some of the novels, and certainly enhanced by the comic genius of Chevy Chase.
I certainly feel Chase was the perfect choice to play Irwin M. Fletcher, as his timing and facial expressions all through the two movies are perfect.
'Fletch Lives', on the other hand, was a completely original script, and focused more on Chase's comic talent. However, the movie is still very good, and it's a pity Universal has as yet, still not came up with a third movie outing.