“My ideal role would be a baddie in a James Bond film. I think the wheelchair and the computer voice would fit the part.”
- January 8, 1942 – March 14, 2018
- British
- Theoretical physicist, science writer
- Announced the black hole singularity theorem and Hawking radiation, and contributed to the popularization of science with his book “Talking about the Universe”
Quote
“My ideal role would be a baddie in a James Bond film. I think the wheelchair and the computer voice would fit the part.”
Explanation
In this lighthearted quote, Stephen Hawking humorously imagines himself playing the role of a villain in a James Bond movie. Known for his sharp wit and sense of humor, Hawking here expresses how his wheelchair and computerized voice could be fitting characteristics for a classic Bond antagonist, aligning with the iconic tropes of film villains. Often, the portrayal of the villain in action films is marked by physical or technological distinctiveness, and Hawking playfully suggests that his own unique appearance and distinctive voice could serve as the perfect fit for such a role. His suggestion speaks to his ability to not only navigate the challenges of his physical condition but also to embrace his identity with confidence and humor.
This quote also reflects Hawking’s broader approach to life: he was never one to let his ALS or any of his limitations define him negatively. Instead, he approached life with a sense of playfulness and creativity, often engaging in popular culture and media in a way that highlighted his intellectual prowess as well as his sense of fun. His involvement in various cameos in films and TV shows, such as The Simpsons, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and even The Big Bang Theory, demonstrate his willingness to embrace popular culture and engage with the world beyond science, while still maintaining his identity as one of the most influential physicists of the modern era.
In modern times, this quote reflects a broader cultural trend where individuals, regardless of their physical limitations, are more widely recognized for their multidimensional roles in society. The idea of Hawking as a “baddie” is playful and intriguing, serving as a reminder of how disability and technology can be reimagined in popular culture. It challenges typical portrayals of people with disabilities as being purely tragic or heroic, and instead invites us to see them in diverse, even iconic roles. Hawking’s vision of himself in a Bond film encapsulates his lifelong engagement with the intersection of intellect and culture, where no aspect of his identity was off-limits for exploration or fun.
