NPR

Stephen Hawking, Who Awed Both Scientists And The Public, Dies

Hawking was a theoretical physicist who changed how scientists think about gravity. He also wrote the best-selling book A Brief History of Time and lent his machine-aided voice to TV shows. He was 76.
Stephen Hawking smiles during a 2002 symposium in honor of his 60th birthday at the University of Cambridge. Hawking has died at 76.

There aren't very many scientists who achieved rock-star status. Stephen Hawking, who has died at the age of 76, family members told British media early Wednesday, was definitely a contender.

"He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years," the family statement said, according to . "His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world. He once said, 'It would not be much of a universe if it wasn't

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