‘Into the Universe With Stephen Hawking’ comes to Discovery Channel
Who would have thought that one of the world’s most famous scientists finds time to take in a little television? Whether it’s crime dramas or “The Simpsons,” Stephen Hawking tunes in. He’d even like to participate in a certain popular dance reality competition.
“I’m still waiting for my invitation to ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ ” Hawking joked via a taped message at the Television Critics’ Assn. press tour in Pasadena.
Until then, he’s part of the upcoming Discovery Channel special “Into the Universe With Stephen Hawking.”
“Although I cannot move and I have to speak through a computer, in my mind I am free,” Hawking explains in a preview for the special.
The four-hour event, which takes place over three nights, features computer-generated effects and digitally enhanced NASA footage. It explores questions such as “How did our universe begin?” and “Could alien life be found in distant planets?” from the legendary physicist’s point of view.
Cable rival History Channel has a similar program, “The Universe,” which wrapped its fourth season last fall.
“People will be hooked by the amazing graphics and storytelling,” Hawking said of the Discovery special, produced by Darlow Smithson Productions.
In his recorded message, the author of “A Brief History of Time” said he agreed to be part of the project because of the power of television.
“I know that concepts like time travel and the inner workings of the universe can seem opaque to some . . . but I think with the right pictures and story, anyone can get excited by the subject,” Hawking said.
The special is scheduled to air April 10.
The complete guide to home viewing
Get Screen Gab for everything about the TV shows and streaming movies everyone’s talking about.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
