This Wikipedia entry details the life and legacy of Stephen Hawking, the renowned English theoretical physicist and cosmologist. The text covers his academic journey from Oxford to Cambridge, highlighting his groundbreaking research on black holes, general relativity, and the origins of the universe. It also chronicles his decades-long battle with motor neurone disease, explaining how he utilized assistive technology to communicate and continue his scientific work. Beyond his research, the source examines his role as a prolific author of popular science books like A Brief History of Time and his status as a cultural icon. Finally, it outlines his personal life, philosophical views, and the numerous prestigious honors he received before his death in 2018.