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Stephen Hawking to take us on a wild ride on Discovery

By April MacIntyre Jan 14, 2010, 23:50 GMT

British theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, Professor at the University of Cambridge, EPA/SALVATORE DI NOLFI

Professor Stephen Hawking is throwing his hat into the realm of the reality series for Discovery channel.

Physically confined but mentally free to explore and expound on the mysteries of the universe, Hawking takes viewers on a fantastical journey of discovery. 

Hawkings will address the many questions we all have: How did our universe begin?  Could alien life be found on distant planets?  Does our galaxy have a life expectancy? 

Professor Stephen Hawking and Discovery together are presenting a landmark four-hour event, which takes place over three nights that will stretch the imagination and unleash the wonder.  Producers will serve up cutting edge effects, digitally enhanced NASA footage and live action combine to bring Hawking's extraordinary vision of the universe to the screen for the first time. 

"Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking combines the limitless intellect of Stephen Hawking with the boundless imagination of television’s most creative storytellers.  We are truly honored to bring Professor Hawking’s audacious style and groundbreaking science to Discovery’s 1.5 billion subscribers around the world.  The series is a unique and unforgettable collaboration of art and science, one that sets a new standard for the industry,” said Clark Bunting, president and general manager, Discovery Channel.

The series kicks off with the birth of our galaxies, as Hawking theorizes what the Big Bang can tell us about the eventually end of the universe.  Is the cosmos a ticking time bomb?  And if so, what are the signs of its future demise?

At today's (Jan. 14) Television Critics' Association press tour for Discovery, Hawking was beamed in in a taped message, answering some questions submitted ahead of time by the assembled critics.  When asked what reality TV he might enjoy, Hawking quipped, "I'm still waiting for my invitation to 'Dancing With the Stars.' "

"People will be hooked by the amazing graphics and storytelling," Hawking said of his Discovery special.

This series is set to air Spring 2010.