Guest Star: Stephen Hawking
Stephen Hawking was a noted theoretical physicist, cosmologist, author and professor who worked at the Centre for Theoretical Cosmology within the University of Cambridge. He is known for research into general relativity and quantum gravity, and was an ardent supporter of the "many-worlds interpretation" of quantum mechanics.
Hawking entered the popular consciousness through his best-selling book, A Brief History of Time, and through a number of cameo appearances in popular shows including The Simpsons, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Futurama, and The Big Bang Theory. He used his high profile to campaign for greater support for people with disabilities, and to promote the values of science in public and political spheres.
When Hawking was diagnosed with a rare case of early-onset Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (also known as motor neurone disease or Lou Gehrig's disease) his early twenties, he was only given a few years to live. Hawking triumphed through the disease to research and spread his scientific theories to scientists and the general public alike for another five decades.
Professor Hawking died peacefully in his home in Cambridge on March 14, 2018, at the age of 76.
You are viewing a list of Stephen Hawking's 7 appearances on The Big Bang Theory.
The Hawking Excitation
Season 5, Episode 21 - Aired April 5, 2012When Howard works with Stephen Hawking, Sheldon is thrilled to get the opportunity to meet the great man - although Howard makes him pay for it.
Appeared as Himself
The Extract Obliteration
Season 6, Episode 6 - Aired November 1, 2012Sheldon's excitement at beating Stephen Hawking in a game of Words with Friends fades when Howard informs Sheldon that Hawking is a sore loser.
Appeared as Himself (V.O.)
The Relationship Diremption
Season 7, Episode 20 - Aired April 10, 2014After drowning his sorrows over his lack of progress in his field, Sheldon drunk dials Stephen Hawking.
Appeared as Himself
The Troll Manifestation
Season 8, Episode 14 - Aired February 5, 2015The guys are surprised to learn the identity of the anonymous Internet commenter who criticized Sheldon and Leonard's paper.
Appeared as Himself
The Celebration Experimentation
Season 9, Episode 17 - Aired February 25, 2016Amy surprises Sheldon with a video chat from his idol, Stephen Hawking, who leads the party in a round of Happy Birthday.
Appeared as Himself
The Geology Elevation
Season 10, Episode 9 - Aired November 17, 2016Stephen Hawking video chats with Sheldon to help him overcome his feelings of jealousy for Bert.
Appeared as Himself
The Proposal Proposal
Season 11, Episode 1 - Aired September 25, 2017Before proposing to Amy, Sheldon called Stephen Hawking to ask for his blessing.
Appeared as Himself (V.O.)