Rest Easy, Batman: Discovering the Worst Father in DC Comics History

Warning: Spoilers for The New Gods #1

Highfather Dethrones Batman as the Worst Father in DC Universe

Throughout comic history, numerous superheroes have embraced parenthood, showcasing various levels of competence in balancing their dual identities. While characters like Batman are notorious for their complicated relationships with their children, a recent revelation in The New Gods #1 elevates Highfather to a new low, surpassing Batman’s notorious reputation as a disappointing father figure.

In this first issue, crafted by Ram V and Evan Cagle, Highfather—leader of New Genesis—encounters a troubling prophecy. Delivered by Metron, the prophecy foretells the arrival of a child destined to either embody great good or immense evil. In an alarming display of paternal neglect, Highfather gives his son Orion a chilling directive: eliminate this child before a new threat can emerge to challenge his reign.

Highfather contacts Orion for a dire mission

The Dark Truth of Highfather’s Intentions

When Highfather consults with Metron about the prophetic child, he expresses extreme concern over the potential threat this being could pose. Metron mentions the possibility of bringing light to the Fourth World; however, Highfather’s fixation lies in the fear that this child may rise to fill the void left by Darkseid’s demise. Rather than allow events to unfold naturally, he chooses the drastic measure of sending Orion—his own son—to kill the young New God, a boy named Kamal, before he can become a powerful adversary.

Compounding the tragedy, Highfather could’ve enlisted any loyal follower for this grim task, including the eager Lightray. While Lightray offers his assistance, Highfather’s insistence on summoning Orion instead reveals a troubling dynamic. It is a telling sign of how he perceives Orion, as Highfather’s choice suggests he views him more as a weapon than a son. This decision starkly underscores Highfather’s lack of regard for Orion.

The Shocking Betrayal of Mister Miracle

Orion’s ensuing conversation with Mister Miracle exposes a heartbreaking truth about family dynamics within the New Gods. He articulates his painful reality, stating that Highfather believes “the son of Darkseid will follow his command…even to terrible ends.”This reveals how Highfather’s rejection runs deep; despite raising Orion, he regards him as the spawn of Darkseid, relegating his son to a position of violence rather than familial connection.

The narrative does not end there. Indeed, the origins of Mister Miracle unravel a deeper betrayal. Initially, Scott Free was intended to inherit the legacy of New Genesis; however, a pact between Darkseid and Highfather dramatically altered his fate. In an appalling exchange, Highfather surrendered his own son to Darkseid in return for Orion, thrusting Scott into the harsh realities of life on Apokolips.

Scott endured severe hardships under the oppressive regime led by Granny Goodness yet ultimately escaped to establish a new life on Earth with Big Barda, raising their daughter, Liv Free. Despite his best intentions to break the cycle of abandonment, a destiny fraught with turmoil looms over him.

Scott Free Faces a Heart-Wrenching Dilemma

As The New Gods #1 unfolds, Scott Free encounters a pivotal moment reminiscent of his father’s failures. Orion confronts him with a desperate plea: abandon the Fourth World and save Kamal from Highfather’s lethal order. Torn between his duty to his daughter and the moral imperative to shield the innocent, Scott finds himself at a crossroads that could replicate his father’s missteps.

This emotional conflict illustrates not only Highfather’s dark legacy but also the complexities of fatherhood faced by heroes in the DC universe. Will Scott Free choose to preserve his daughter’s future, or will he succumb to the same abandonment that shaped his chaotic beginnings?

For those eager to explore the intricate backstory of Mister Miracle’s origins, Barda by Ngozi Ukazu, is available now from DC Comics.