Is Stephen Hawking still alive?

Short Answer

Basic Profile

• Full Name: Stephen Hawking
• Date of Birth: January 8, 1942
• Nationality: American
• Primary Known For: Theoretical physicist, A Brief History of Time
• Date of Death: March 14, 2018
• Cause of Death: Motor neurone disease

Latest Confirmed Status Summary

Stephen Hawking died on March 14, 2018, at his home in Cambridge, England, at the age of 76. He passed away peacefully in his sleep after living with ALS (motor neurone disease) for over 50 years. Known as one of the most brilliant theoretical physicists of the modern era, his work on black holes and cosmology revolutionized our understanding of the universe. Author of the bestselling "A Brief History of Time," he made complex physics accessible to millions. His legacy continues to influence physics, cosmology, and scientific communication.

Notable Facts

• Author of "A Brief History of Time" - one of the bestselling science books ever
• Pioneered groundbreaking work on black holes and quantum mechanics
• Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient (2009)
• Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge (position once held by Isaac Newton)
• Lived with ALS for 55 years, far exceeding life expectancy
• One of the most influential scientists of the 20th century
• Made numerous television appearances to popularize science

Sources

• Wikipedia: Stephen Hawking (verified citations, checked February 7, 2026)