Cryptic crossword clue
The German scoundrels returning took leading roles 7

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word STARRED

I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
S
T
A
R
R
E
D

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "took leading roles" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case took leading roles = starred.
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 STARRED mean?

STARRED verb
  1. To appear as a featured performer or headliner, especially in an entertainment program.
  2. To feature (a performer or a headliner), especially in a movie or an entertainment program.
  3. To mark with a star or asterisk.
  4. To set or adorn with stars, or bright, radiating bodies; to bespangle.
  5. To shine like a star.
STARRED adjective
  1. Having a star or stars.

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