Highfather
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| Highfather | |
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| Publication information | |
|---|---|
| Publisher | DC Comics |
| First appearance | New Gods #1 (Feb-Mar 1971) |
| Created by | Jack Kirby |
| In story information | |
| Alter ego | Izaya the Inheritor |
| Place of origin | New Genesis |
| Team affiliations | New Gods of New Genesis Quintessence |
| Abilities | Ability to commune with The Source Immortality Superhuman strength & durability Energy manipulation Telepathy |
Highfather is a fictional comic book character in the DC Comics universe. He is chief of the New Gods of New Genesis in Jack Kirby's Fourth World and ruled the fictional planet. Highfather first appeared in New Gods #1 (Feb-Mar 1971).
[edit] Fictional character biography
Highfather is in reality Izaya, sometimes known as Izaya the Inheritor. The name is a phonetical version of the old testament prophet Isaiah. Highfather thematically resembles the Greek god Zeus and the Norse god Odin (who was known as the high-father).
Darkseid uses Izaya in his scheme to seize control of Apokolips. During a raid by his uncle Steppenwolf, Darkseid appears to kill both Izaya and his wife. However, Darkseid intentionally only stuns Izaya, knowing he will seek revenge on Steppenwolf, which he does, killing him and paving the way for Darkseid's ascent to power.
In making peace with Apokolips, Izaya and Darkseid make a pact to exchange their sons. Darkseid raises Scott Free, while Izaya raises Orion. Izaya manages to tame the savage Orion (to a point), and he becomes one of the greatest warriors of New Genesis. Eventually, Scott Free (Mr. Miracle) escapes Apokolips, as planned by Darkseid, which breaks the pact between New Genesis and Apokolips. Izaya and Scott are reunited, though relations between the two have not always been easy.
Highfather often consults the Source, a primal energy field represented by a mysterious wall upon which are written messages which may be of use in resolving crises. Though never stated outright in the New Gods series, the Source is implied to be some form of higher power (perhaps even God), making Izaya a spiritual as well as political leader of his people. As ruler of New Genesis, he is kind, compassionate and caring, but ready to defend it from any threat.
During the Genesis limited series, Highfather is slain in battle with the war god Ares. He is succeeded as leader of New Genesis by Takion, an Earthling hero who is a living conduit of the Source. Since his death, Izaya's spirit has served as a member of The Quintessence, a council of powerful cosmic entities that observe events in the universe.
Highfather later appears in Seven Soldiers: Mister Miracle as the leader of the New Genesis survivors living as homeless people on Earth following the destruction of their world. However, much of the events of that miniseries prove to be a vision of possible events, leaving Highfather and New Genesis' current situation in doubt.
[edit] Other media
In the DC Animated Universe, Highfather first appears on Superman: The Animated Series in the Season 2 episode "Apokolips ... Now! part II", and the series finale episode "Legacy." He does not have any lines in these appearances.
The Highfather receives his first speaking role in "Twilight", a Season 2 episode of the Justice League animated series. He is voiced by Mitchell Ryan.
[edit] External links
- WB official site
- Highfather chronology
- Highfather bio @ toonzone
- A detailed article @ toonzone
- A detailed article
- Another article on geocities
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