Syfy, Discovery, Science Channel to Pay Tribute to Stephen Hawking

Several cable networks will pay tribute to Stephen Hawking with content featuring the late astrophysicist.

Wednesday night (March 14), beginning at 11:30 pm, Syfy will honor Hawking -- who passed away Wednesday at the age of 76 -- with the airing of seven episodes from the animated series Futurama in which Hawking voices himself, according to the network. 

Discovery and Science Channel, beginning March 15, will air over several days programs featuring Hawking, including primetime presentations of the Emmy-nominated mini-series Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking and Stephen Hawking’s Grand Design, said network officials. 

Discovery and Science Channel will also offer Hawking-themed programs on multiplatform apps Discovery Go and Science Go.

“One of the most brilliant minds of our lifetime, Stephen Hawking epitomized the missions of Discovery and Science Channel,” said Nancy Daniels, chief brand officer, Discovery and Factual in a statement. “He was also no stranger to the networks, having participated in numerous projects for us, including Into The Universe With Stephen Hawking, which was nominated for two Emmys. Having accomplished so much, we are pleased to join in celebrating his remarkable life.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.