Crossword Genius

Hero of a tale known for its opening? (3,4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ali baba

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'hero' is the definition.
(I have seen 'hero of pantomime' mean 'ali baba' so perhaps 'hero' could also mean 'ali baba')

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ali baba that I've seen before include "He discovered the magic words "Open Sesame"" , "Pantomime hero opposed by forty thieves" , "Hero of 22 across" , "show" , "With 40 Thieves, he's a fictional Arab" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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