Did you know all blue-eyed people are linked by a single genetic mutation? Scientists say it began 6,000–10,000 years ago. Originally, every human had brown eyes until a gene switch created the striking blue shade.
Professor Hans Eiberg explained, “We all had brown eyes. A mutation turned off the ability to produce brown pigment.” This means everyone with blue eyes today is believed to descend from the same ancestor.

Blue eyes do come with quirks. Because they have less melanin, they are more sensitive to light and UV rays. But studies suggest positives too — research shows blue-eyed people may excel in strategic thinking.
From Marie Curie to Stephen Hawking, many brilliant minds shared this eye color. One reader joked, “Spoiler alert: all their eyes are blue,” while others called the discovery “fascinating.”
So next time you notice those bright blue irises, remember: behind the beauty lies a genetic story connecting millions across generations. Doesn’t that make you see blue eyes in a whole new way?