Netflix’s latest endeavor to convert anime into live-action has hit a challenging bump in the road with the unveiling of the upcoming series “Bet,”a project rooted in the acclaimed gambling anime series “Kakegurui.”While many fans eagerly anticipated a fresh season of the beloved anime, they were instead introduced to “Bet,”which is set to premiere this summer.
This new adaptation closely mirrors the narrative arcs of “Kakegurui,”centering on protagonist Yumeko Jabami, who enrolls at an elite academy known for its dark underground gambling culture that dictates the social hierarchy among students. Armed with sharp intellect and cunning strategies, Yumeko navigates the treacherous casino games in hopes of climbing the social ladder while uncovering the mysteries tied to her parents’ enigmatic deaths.
The recently released trailer on Netflix’s official social media platforms offers a glimpse into this live-action representation. While some familiar elements such as storyline and core characters remain, the adaptation opts for a distinctive creative direction, altering character appearances and redefining Yumeko’s motivations in her quest against the school.
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Yumeko Jabami
The Protagonist and Self-Aware Compulsive Gambler
Yumeko plays a vital role in “Kakegurui”as a newcomer whose passion for gambling is overshadowed by her compelling nature. Though often perceived as sweet and naive, her love for high-stakes gambling reveals the depth of her character. The anime features voice acting by Erika Harlacher and Estelle Link in English, and Saori Hayami in Japanese. In previous live-action adaptations, Yumeko was portrayed by Minami Hamabe, while “Bet”casts Miku Martineau, who brings an exciting new approach to the character.
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Ryota Suzui
The Proverbial Straightman Trying to Help Yumeko
Ryota stands as Yumeko’s initial ally amidst her chaotic journey through gambling challenges at the academy. Voiced by Griffin Burns and Adam Gibbs in the English dub, and Tatsuya Tokutake in Japanese, his character finds a new interpretation in “Bet”as he takes the name Ryan. Ayo Solanke portrays him, with his character tasked to enlighten viewers about St. Dominic’s intricate rules. However, the adaptation’s portrayal of Ryan as a “Pet,”serving other students, raises eyebrows and has drawn criticism for perceived negative representation.
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Mary Saotome
The Brash but Strategic Villain Turned Ally
Mary’s initial impression is hardly favorable; she is responsible for Ryota’s demotion to “Pet”status. Her arrogant behavior and manipulation are evident until Yumeko turns the tide through their gambling encounters. Voiced by Kira Buckland and Christina Kelly in English, with Minami Tanaka in Japanese, Mary also sees a change in portrayal; Aoi Morikawa represented her in the previous Japanese drama while Eve Edwards steps into the role for “Bet.”While Mary is inherently strategic, her new portrayal in “Bet”necessitates adjustments that could affect her character dynamics.
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Kirari Momobami
Cold Mastermind Behind the School’s Massive Changes
Initially, Kirari represents a mystique within “Kakegurui,”having won her position by defeating the former student president. Her controversial shifts in school policy introduce a harsh environment dictated by debt. Kirari’s character has been voiced by Michelle Ruff and Olivia Swasey in English, alongside Miyuki Sawashiro in Japanese. In the earlier live-action, Elaiza Ikeda successfully embodies her aloof charm. Yet, “Bet”opts to strip this layered complexity and replaces it with a mainstream archetype, leading to stylistic changes that potentially lessen her character’s depth.
Character appearances are crucial in “Kakegurui,” often misleading in their authenticity. Yumeko’s deceptive innocence, Mary’s strategic cunning, and Kirari’s deceptive sanctity create a rich tapestry. However, “Bet”risks oversimplifying these intricate portrayals, potentially alienating the loyal fanbase.
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Ririka Momobami
The Silent More Covert Twin to Kirari
Notably, Ririka Momobami is Kirari’s twin, known for her masks that contribute to her elusive character. Though shy and restrained, she displays remarkable gambling prowess. Initially voiced by the same actresses as her sister, Ririk will be portrayed by Anwen O’Driscoll in “Bet,”deviating from the traditional appearance. Critics have noted that Ririka’s visual design may portray an assertiveness contrary to her original shy nature, sparking discussion about character fidelity in adaptations.
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Midari Ikishima
The Crazed Gambler Who Will Put Their Life on the Line
Midari Ikishima introduces viewers to the unexpected depth of the student council’s dynamics, showcasing a love for chaos akin to Yumeko’s own gambling fervor. Initially portrayed by Sarah Williams and Natalie Rial in the English dub and Mariya Ise in the Japanese version, the character is reimagined in “Bet”as Dori, played by Aviva Mongillo. While creative shifts may signal a desire to appeal to a distinct audience, the essence of Midari’s mischief and punk aesthetics remains resonant.
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Runa Yomozuki
The Neutral Referee Who Enforces Order and Compliance
Runa serves as a pivotal character later in the series, with her aloof manner and compliance to the president’s whims creating an undercurrent of tension within the story. Voiced by Brittney Karbowski and Kayli Mills in English, as well as Mayu Udono in Japanese, Runa’s character is yet to be definitive in “Bet.”The trailer shows two potential characters reflecting her playful energy, adding to the uncertainty surrounding her role in this adaptation.
WTF? pic.twitter.com/0Neki8za6j — Luminis (@Luminis_9) April 22, 2025
Enthusiasts of “Kakegurui”have expressed disappointment and confusion regarding the changes made in “Bet,”feeling that the series strays too far from the source material while presenting a genre shift that diverges from the expected thrill of the anime. While the fervent fanbase longs for a season three of “Kakegurui,”they are instead met with a narrative twist that ventures into uncharted territory.