This January, Stephen Hawking – renowned theoretical physicist and one of the world’s most brilliant minds – invites you on an intimate and revealing journey through his life. Told for the first time in Stephen’s own words, “A BRIEF HISTORY OF MINE” is the powerful story of Stephen’s battle with his debilitating disease, his rise to fame, and its devastating effects on his family life.
Stephen Hawking was born in 1942. Shortly after his 21st birthday while he was pursuing his PhD at Cambridge University, Stephen was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as motor neuron disease or ALS (think “ALS Ice Bucket Challenge“). He was given 2 to 3 years to live but he has somehow defied the odds.
Jane Wilde & Stephen Hawking in 1974
For more than 50 years now, he has been travelling the world studying and lecturing about time and space, and the laws that govern the universe. Stephen reveals how keeping an active mind has been vital to his survival, as has been maintaining a sense of humour. We also hear from those who know and work with him – his family, friends, peers, and also Hollywood actor Jim Carrey whom Stephen did a skit with.
Now 72 years old, Stephen still goes to work every day at Cambridge University. He has 12 honorary degrees, and is the author of numerous publications and books. He is the recipient of many awards, medals and prizes, is a Fellow of The Royal Society and a Member of the US National Academy of Sciences.
President Obama awarding the Medal of Freedom to Stephen Hawking in 2009
The 2-hour special premieres on Sunday, 4th Jan at 9pm. (2100 hrs) on Discovery Channel (Astro Channel 551); encores Monday, 5th Jan at 100am. (0100 hrs).
Don’t forget to also check out some fun facts about Stephen Hawking here and to check out the trailer for “A Theory of Everything”, the upcoming Stephen Hawking biopic here.