CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — For more than two decades, Champaign physician Dr. David Fletcher worked to change the narrative surrounding one of baseball’s most controversial and electrifying stars.
That effort culminated in 2024 when former Chicago White Sox slugger Dick Allen was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the veterans committee, a milestone Fletcher calls the result of years of research, advocacy and storytelling.
Fletcher, an occupational physician and owner of SafeWorks Illinois in Champaign, spent years documenting Allen’s career and challenging perceptions that many supporters believed unfairly kept the seven-time All-Star out of Cooperstown.
Fletcher co-authored the book Chili Dog MVP and served as executive producer of the new five-part documentary series My Father, Dick Allen, which premieres May 9 at SeriesFest in Denver. The series follows Richard Allen Jr.’s emotional journey as his father is posthumously welcomed into the Hall of Fame while also examining the racism and criticism Allen faced throughout his career.
According to promotional materials for the documentary, the project explores Allen’s resilience, rebellion and long-overdue recognition as one of baseball’s premier talents.
The premiere also includes a special appearance by legendary White Sox organist Nancy Faust, who famously played “Jesus Christ Superstar” as Allen’s walk-up music during the 1972 season. Faust has credited Allen’s popularity with inspiring one of baseball’s earliest signature player themes.
Fletcher said the documentary team hopes to secure a streaming distribution deal with a major platform such as Netflix or HBO and eventually bring a screening to Champaign’s historic Virginia Theatre.
In addition to his advocacy work surrounding Allen, Fletcher serves as founder and president of the virtual Chicago Baseball Museum, which preserves and promotes the history of baseball in Chicago.
Allen, who died in 2020, finished his major league career with 351 home runs and won the American League Most Valuable Player Award with the White Sox in 1972.
