An incredible scientific mind, Jor-El warned the Kryptonian science council that constant harvesting of the planet's natural resources would result in global catastrophe. He was laughed out of the conference, but months later the nightmare came true. Faced with imminent and hopeless destruction, Jor-El devises a plan to save his son from annihilation.

Though he's a minor character in the chapter of this story, Jor-El and his wife unknowingly create the greatest hero the world has ever known. Cursed with the knowledge that he could have prevented the destruction of his people, Jor-El carries a heavy burden. This is paramount in his decision to send away his son.