Cryptic crossword clue
Did show behind curtains Italian backed and directed 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word MOTIONED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
M
O
T
I
O
N
E
D


Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "directed" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case directed = motioned.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does MOTIONED mean?

MOTIONED verb
  1. To gesture indicating a desired movement.
  2. To introduce a motion in parliamentary procedure.
  3. To make a proposal; to offer plans.

Latest crossword clues with full explanations