Benedict Cumberbatch has paid tribute to Stephen Hawking (Picture: Getty)

Benedict Cumberbatch has paid tribute to Stephen Hawking in the wake of his death aged 76.

Cumberbatch played him in BBC film Hawking in 2004, the first ever portrayal of him on screen.

The actor said: ‘I was so sad to hear that Stephen has died. I send my heartfelt love and condolences to all his family and colleagues.

‘I feel so lucky to have known such a truly great man who’s profundity was found both in his work and the communication of that work. Both in person and in books. He virtually created the publishing genre of popular science. A heroic feat to bring the wondrous complexities of the universe to all outside of specialists in this field.


Cumberbatch as Hawking in the 2004 film (Picture: BBC)

‘But truly courageous when considering it was achieved by a man who lived a life trapped in his body from the age of 21 when he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. His support of the sciences, art, education and the NHS and charities such as the MND foundation will also live on as will his wickedly funny sense of humour.



‘I will miss our margaritas but will raise one to the stars to celebrate your life and the light of understanding you shone so brightly on them for the rest of us. You were and are a true inspiration for me and for millions around the world. Thank you.’

Hawking died peacefully at his home in Cambridge in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

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His children Lucy, Robert and Tim said in a statement: ‘We are deeply saddened that our beloved father passed away today.

‘He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years.

‘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 forever.’

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