Stephen Hawking

Stephen William Hawking was a British theoretical physicist, cosmologist, and author who was the Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge. He is best known for his work on black holes, Hawking radiation, and his bestselling book A Brief History of Time. Hawking attended a scientific conference organized by Epstein on his private island, St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 2006. Photographs of Hawking on the island were published in media reports. Hawking, who suffered from ALS, was a prominent figure at the physics conference which was attended by other renowned scientists. There are no allegations of wrongdoing against Hawking. The conference was one of several examples of how Epstein cultivated relationships with prominent scientists through philanthropic funding.

Born in Oxford during World War II. Studied at University College, Oxford and Trinity Hall, Cambridge. Diagnosed with ALS at age 21 and given two years to live, but survived for over 50 more years.

Hawking was photographed at Epstein's conference on St. Thomas island. He later attended a conference in the U.S. Virgin Islands organized by Epstein. Epstein used his association with scientists like Hawking to enhance his own reputation.

Married Jane Wilde in 1965 (divorced 1995). Married Elaine Mason in 1995 (divorced 2006). Three children from first marriage.