The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word COSTARS
C
O
S
T
A
R
S
More clues leading to the result COSTARS
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Leads" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case leads = costars.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 COSTARS mean?
COSTARS noun- A person who shares star billing
- A person who slightly lacks the status to be considered a star
- To perform with the billing of a costar.