Stephen Hawking, legendary theoretical physicist, dies at 76

Enlarge / Professor Stephen Hawking addressing The Cambridge Union on November 21, 2017 in Cambridge, Cambridgeshire. (credit: Photo by Chris Williamson/Getty Images)

Stephen Hawking, the British physicist and author of A Brief History of Time, has passed away at the age of 76.

"He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years," according to a statement released to British media early Wednesday morning.

"His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humour inspired people across the world. He once said, 'It would not be much of a universe if it wasn't home to the people you love.' We will miss him for ever."