Jane Hawking

Jane Hawking, Stephen Hawking's first wife, provided unwavering support while he revolutionized physics, all while facing her own health challenges.

Non-Fiction Writer

March 29, 1944

81

Jane Hawking, born on March 29, 1944, is an English author, teacher, and advocate best known for her memoir, “Travelling to Infinity,” which was adapted into the award-winning film “The Theory of Everything.” She has also contributed to various publications and events, sharing her experiences as the former wife of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking.

Jane’s passion for literature and languages led her to study modern languages at Westfield College, University of London. During her time at university, she met Stephen Hawking, a brilliant physics student diagnosed with motor neuron disease (ALS) at the age of 21. Despite the challenges they faced, Jane and Stephen married in 1965, and she became a pillar of support for him throughout his life.

As a writer, Jane published several novels that explored themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Her works include “Music to Move the Stars” (1999), “Unfolding the Cosmos” (2007), and “The Keys to the Universe” (2009). These books offer a unique perspective on the life of a renowned physicist and the challenges they faced as a family.

Beyond her writing, Jane Hawking became a passionate advocate for people with disabilities and a patron of the Motor Neurone Disease Association. She tirelessly campaigned to raise awareness about ALS and supported research into finding a cure for the disease. Her efforts helped bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and inspired others to advocate for their rights.

Jane and Stephen Hawking had three children together: Robert, Lucy, and Timothy. Despite the challenges of Stephen’s condition, Jane remained a devoted wife and mother, providing unwavering support and care for her family. In 1995, Jane and Stephen divorced, and she later married Jonathan Hellyer Jones in 2015.

Jane Hawking’s contributions to literature and advocacy were widely recognized. She received honorary doctorates from several universities and was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2009 for her services to people with disabilities.

Jane Hawking’s life was marked by her resilience, compassion, and unwavering support for her family and the wider community. Through her writing and advocacy, she made a significant impact on raising awareness about ALS and inspiring others to overcome challenges. Jane Hawking’s legacy continues to inspire and empower individuals around the world.