Idol Reunion on Screen: Yumi Wakatsuki Joins ‘Saved, Devoured’ Drama, Co-starring with Tamami Sakaguchi and Rintaro Hachimura!
The highly anticipated live-action drama ‘Sukui, Sukuware’ (‘Saved, Devoured’) unveils an exciting cast lineup, featuring Yumi Wakatsuki as a mysterious actress, marking her first on-screen reunion with former group junior Tamami Sakaguchi. Rintaro Hachimura also joins, playing himself, adding another layer to this intense yandere love suspense set in the cutthroat entertainment world. This thrilling new wave of cast members promises an even deeper dive into the addictive “yandere” love suspense.
Based on a popular comic that has sold over 500,000 copies (including digital) and captivated readers in Japan and Korea with its twisted narrative, the drama plunges into the cutthroat world of entertainment. It explores how characters can rapidly descend into darkness and transform, promising a rollercoaster of emotions for viewers.
A Web of Intertwined Fates: Wakatsuki, Sakaguchi, and Hachimura’s Dramatic Entrances
Yumi Wakatsuki, known for her roles in popular TV dramas like “Kyo Kara Ore Wa!!” and the upcoming morning drama “Omusubi,” will portray Seira, a mysterious actress who holds the key to lead actor Chiaki’s (NOA) past. Her appearance is particularly poignant as it brings her back to the screen with Tamami Sakaguchi, who plays the innocent rookie idol Ten and the drama’s heroine. This on-screen reunion, a first since their shared idol group era, adds an emotional depth that fans will undoubtedly cherish.
Adding a meta twist, Rintaro Hachimura, a member of the dance-vocal unit WATWING and co-star with NOA in “Kimi no Hana ni Naru,” will play himself. He enters the story as an actor who grows close to Ten during a fictional drama, becoming a romantic rival to NOA’s Chiaki. The dynamic between the real-life friends, now adversaries on screen, is expected to be a highlight, injecting a unique spice into the narrative.
Yumi Wakatsuki expressed her excitement about her role: “I’m delighted to be entrusted with the important role of Seira. Furthermore, I’m grateful for this connection, being able to join my dear junior’s first continuous drama as the heroine. I want to do my best not to be outshone by everyone’s sparkle. Please look forward to how I become involved in the story!”
Rintaro Hachimura also shared his thoughts: “My best friend’s starring role! I’m so happy! And to guest star in it! I’m happy! While NOA and I have shared many private and work moments, it’s been several years since we were on an acting set together, which felt incredibly fresh. Playing myself was a bit confusing, but I’m looking forward to seeing how I appear in the main story, haha. It was only one day and flew by, but it was a very pleasant and gentle set, and I’m happy to have been a part of it.”
The Pulsating World of “LUNA NEST” and a Deepening Mystery
Further enriching the drama’s vibrant idol landscape, Popteen exclusive model Rei Mukai, known from “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita Natsuyasumi-hen 2023,” and Rira Yonezawa, Grand Prix winner of “Joshi Kosei Miss Contest 2023” and participant in three seasons of “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita,” will join as members of Ten’s idol group, “LUNA NEST.” These two, who are friends in real life, will bring their chemistry to the stage, portraying the idol group with authentic energy. The reveal of Ten’s idol appearance, alongside her “LUNA NEST” bandmates, offers a glimpse into the full scope of the group.
The intricate relationship chart reveals a complex web: Chiaki (NOA) and Ten (Tamami Sakaguchi) find their bond disrupted by Kairi (Atsushi Akune). The addition of Seira (Yumi Wakatsuki), who knows Chiaki’s past, and actor Hachimura (Rintaro Hachimura), who becomes Ten’s on-screen lover, intensifies Chiaki’s jealousy, pushing his affection towards a consuming obsession.
Broadcast and Streaming Information
“Sukui, Sukuware” is set to premiere on MBS Drama Tokku on February 12, 2026, at 00:59 JST. Subsequent broadcasts will follow on various channels:
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MBS: Every Thursday from February 12, 2026, 00:59 JST (First episode: February 12, 01:09 JST; Second episode: February 19, 02:33 JST)
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TV Kanagawa: Every Thursday from February 12, 2026, 23:30 JST
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Chiba TV: Every Friday from February 13, 2026, 23:00 JST
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TV Saitama: Every Wednesday from February 18, 2026, 00:30 JST
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Tochigi TV: Every Thursday from February 19, 2026, 23:30 JST
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Gunma TV: Every Thursday from February 19, 2026, 00:00 JST
Catch-up streaming will be available on TVer and MBS Douga Izm, with exclusive unlimited viewing on FOD. For more details, visit the official website: https://www.mbs.jp/sukusuku/
The Original Work: A Phenomenon of Dark Romance
The live-action drama is based on the highly successful comic “Sukui, Sukuware” (救い、巣喰われ), originally conceived by Kotoko and illustrated by Kamo. Serialized under Micro Magazine’s Comic Rouge label, this “ultimate yandere-kei love suspense” has garnered a massive following, achieving over 500,000 copies in circulation, including digital editions. Its compelling narrative, which delves into the darker side of love and obsession within the glittering entertainment industry, has resonated deeply with readers.
Comic Rouge, the label behind the original work, is known for its “stimulating comics that make you want to wear bright red lipstick,” offering a diverse lineup including romance and Boys’ Love titles. Explore more at the Comic Rouge official website: https://comicrouge.jp/
A Glimpse into the Future of Kawaii Culture
The live-action adaptation of “Sukui, Sukuware” exemplifies the dynamic evolution of Japanese pop culture. By bringing together established actors and popular idols in a drama that explores complex, darker themes alongside the glittering facade of the entertainment industry, it offers a fresh take on storytelling. This blend of “kawaii” idol appeal with intense suspense, delivered through a multi-platform release, is set to captivate audiences not just in Japan but also abroad, showcasing the versatility and depth of modern Japanese entertainment. The intricate human emotions and the unique genre of “yandere” love are elements that transcend cultural boundaries, hinting at a future where Japanese dramas continue to push creative limits and gain global recognition.
