Watch Hawking

Hawking is a dramatic biographical TV show that tells the story of the extraordinary life of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. It features a star-studded cast with Benedict Cumberbatch in the lead role as the titular character, supported by Michael Brandon, Lisa Dillon, Phoebe Nicholls, Adam Godley, Peter Firth, Tom Ward, John Sessions, Matthew Marsh, Anastasia Hille, Alice Eve, Mark Wells, Sebastian Armesto, Philip McGinley, and Anthony Howell.

The show is set in the 1960s when Hawking was a young and ambitious student at Cambridge University, who aspired to make groundbreaking discoveries in the field of physics. It traces his journey as he navigates the academic world, struggling to complete his Ph.D. while coming to terms with his diagnosis of motor neuron disease, which gradually robs him of his mobility and voice.

Despite his physical challenges, Hawking refuses to let his disability define him and begins to work on his groundbreaking theories, including the singularity theorem, which shows that the universe must have had a beginning, and the concept of black hole radiation, which revolutionizes the field of cosmology. His work eventually leads to his appointment as Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge, a position once held by Isaac Newton.

The show also explores the personal side of Hawking's life, including his relationship with his wife, Jane (played by Lisa Dillon), who supports him through his illness, raises their children, and pursues her own academic career. The couple's marriage becomes strained over time as the demands of his work and the progression of his illness take their toll.

Throughout the series, the audience witnesses Hawking's unwavering determination to overcome his disability and make groundbreaking contributions to the field of physics. The show expertly balances the scientific themes with intimate glimpses into Hawking's personal life, providing a well-rounded and empathetic portrait of the famous physicist. The audience sees him struggle with the limitations of his condition, but also marvels at his genius and the sheer force of his will.

The show's cast is superb, with Benedict Cumberbatch delivering a nuanced and compelling performance as Hawking. He captures both the brilliance and the vulnerability of the character, portraying him as a complex and multifaceted figure. Lisa Dillon is equally impressive as Jane, portraying her as a strong, compassionate, and highly intelligent woman who serves as the backbone of the family. The rest of the cast is equally skilled, with standout performances from Michael Brandon as Hawking's father, Sebastian Armesto as his colleague and friend Roger Penrose, and Alice Eve as a nurse who cares for Hawking during a difficult period.

The production values are also top-notch, with the show's creators skillfully capturing the look and feel of the 1960s and 1970s. The use of real footage and photographs of Hawking and his family adds to the authenticity of the show, while the music and cinematography evoke a sense of nostalgia for the era.

Overall, Hawking is a powerful and moving portrayal of one of the most brilliant minds of our time. Through its expert storytelling, outstanding performances, and attention to detail, it brings to life the story of a man who defied the odds and left an indelible mark on the world of science. It is a must-watch for fans of biographical dramas and anyone who is interested in the life and work of Stephen Hawking.

Hawking is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on April 13, 2004.