Gina Heslop
Lucy Hawking, daughter of the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, continues to honor her father’s legacy by actively contributing to the organization he founded. Born in 1969, Lucy shares her father’s passion for inspiring others, especially children, to delve into scientific subjects. Stephen Hawking, born in 1942 in Oxford, England, became a brilliant mind despite facing challenges in his early years, earning him the nickname “Einstein” during his teenage years.
Stephen’s marriage to Lucy’s mother, Jane, lasted thirty years and resulted in three children. However, the relationship ended in divorce when Stephen remarried Elaine Mason in 1995, leading to a strained dynamic with his children. Despite this, Lucy, a skilled journalist, and author, collaborated with her father on a series of children’s books, starting with “George’s Cosmic Treasure Hunt.” Their collaboration extended to subsequent titles, blending science and adventure.
The family witnessed the portrayal of Stephen’s life in the Hollywood film “The Theory of Everything” in 2014, with Eddie Redmayne winning an Academy Award for his depiction of Stephen. Lucy, deeply moved by the film, described a poignant scene where her father stands up in a dream, mirroring a childhood vision she had. This emotional connection to the movie made the experience truly incredible for her.
Lucy’s dedication to preserving her father’s memory and promoting scientific curiosity is evident in her work with the organization and her own contributions as an author. Despite the challenges within the family, Lucy remains committed to advancing her father’s vision of making science accessible and engaging for young minds. The collaborative effort between father and daughter continues to inspire and educate, ensuring that Stephen Hawking’s impact on the world endures.
