Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Common stock, Class A
Common Class A [Member]
Voting common stock
Voting Common Stock [Member]
Voting common stock.
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Restricted cash
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances - 2012, $2,491; 2011, $1,885)
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Inventory
Inventory, Net
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Current
Income taxes receivable
Income Taxes Receivable, Current
Miscellaneous
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Investments
Long-term Investments
Property, plant and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent
Miscellaneous
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total Assets
Assets
Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Customer deposits and unearned revenue
Deferred Revenue and Credits, Current
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Accrued liabilities:
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Employee compensation and benefits
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Miscellaneous
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt (less current portion)
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Other liabilities (less current portion)
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Commitments and contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Equity:
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Preferred stock, $.01 par - authorized: 25,000,000 shares; none outstanding
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 2012 - 43,594,229 shares; 2011 - 42,353,882 shares. Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 2012 - 11,932,735 shares; 2011 - 11,932,735 shares
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Retained earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes:
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Unrealized loss on derivatives
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax
Pension liability adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax
Total The E.W. Scripps Company shareholders' equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Noncontrolling interest
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Operating results
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Schedule of Operating Leased Assets [Table]
Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis]
Statement, Operating Activities Segment [Axis]
Segment, Operating Activities [Domain]
Segment, Operating Activities [Domain]
Continuing operations
Segment, Continuing Operations [Member]
Discontinued operations
Segment, Discontinued Operations [Member]
Operating Lease Expenses [Line Items]
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Future minimum payments on noncancelable leases in 2013
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Future minimum payments on noncancelable leases in 2014
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Future minimum payments on noncancelable leases in 2015
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Future minimum payments on noncancelable leases in 2016
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Future minimum payments on noncancelable leases in 2017
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Future minimum payments on noncancelable leases due in later years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Rental expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Future minimum payments on contractual commitments in 2013
Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
Future minimum payments on contractual commitments in 2014
Purchase Obligation, Due in Second Year
Future minimum payments on contractual commitments in 2015
Purchase Obligation, Due in Third Year
Future minimum payments on contractual commitments in 2016
Purchase Obligation, Due in Fourth Year
Future minimum payments on contractual commitments in 2017
Purchase Obligation, Due in Fifth Year
Future minimum payments on contractual commitments due in later years
Purchase Obligation, Due after Fifth Year
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Instrument [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Variable rate credit facilities
Variable Rate Credit Facilities [Member]
Variable rate credit facilities.
Term loan
Term Loan [Member]
Term loan.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Components of Long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract]
Long-term debt
Long-term Debt
Current portion of long-term debt
Long-term debt (less current portion)
Fair value of long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Fair Value Measurement
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain]
Defined Benefit Plans
Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
SERP
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plans, Defined Benefit [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation
Fair value of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain]
United Media Licensing
United Media Licensing [Member]
United Media Licensing [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Cash sale price
Discontinued Operation, Price of Discontinued Operation, Cash Received
Amount of cash received to sell the entity.
Gain on sale of United Media Licensing, before tax
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax
Investments [Abstract]
Investments
Investments [Text Block]
Investments [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Derivative Contract Type [Domain]
Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Effective portion of the unrealized gain and loss on the derivative
Cash Flow Hedging Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position Location [Abstract]
Cash flow hedging instruments statements of financial performance and financial position location.
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract]
Effective portion recognized in Accumulated OCL, Gain/(Loss)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net
Reclassified from Accumulated OCL, Gain/(Loss)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net
Ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing, Gain/(Loss)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net income (loss)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Income from discontinued operations
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Adjustments to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash flows from operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Contract termination fees
Contract Termination Fees
Contract termination fees.
Impairment of long-lived assets
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use
Losses/(gains) on sale of property, plant and equipment
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property
Gain on sale of investments
Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Operating Activities
The component of income tax expense for the period representing the increase (decrease) in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to continuing operations as included in the operating activities in the cash flow.
Excess tax benefits of share-based compensation plans
Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities
Stock and deferred compensation plans
Stock and Deferred Compensation Plans
Cash flows related to share based compensation and deferred compensation.
Pension expense, net of payments
Pension Expense, Net of Payments
Pension expense, net of payments
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital
Miscellaneous, net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Net cash provided by continuing operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by discontinued operating activities
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Acquisitions
Payments to Acquire Additional Interest in Subsidiaries
Additions to property, plant and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Changes in restricted cash
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash
Purchase of investments
Payments to Acquire Investments
Miscellaneous, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in continuing investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by discontinued investing activities
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Increases in long-term debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Payments on long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Payments of financing costs
Payments of Financing Costs
Repurchase of Class A Common shares
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Proceeds from employee stock options
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised
Tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Excess tax benefits from stock compensation plans
Excess Tax Benefit (Tax Deficiency) from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities
Miscellaneous, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash (used in) provided by continuing financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations
Change in cash — discontinued operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract]
Beginning of year
End of year
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment
Components of basic and diluted weighted-average shares
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Statutory rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate
Effect of:
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credits, Deductions, Reserve, and Other [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credits, Deductions, Reserves, and Other [Abstract]
State and local income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes
Reserve for uncertain tax positions
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Contingencies
Miscellaneous
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments
Effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations
Financial Instruments
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Measurement Basis [Axis]
Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain]
Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain]
Carrying value
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Estimate of fair value
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Number of long-lived assets subject to impairment
Number of Long-Lived Assets Subject to Impairment
Number of Long-Lived Assets Subject to Impairment
Property, plant and equipment measurement reviewed for impairment
Property, Plant, and Equipment, Fair Value Disclosure
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Projected benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Benefit Obligation
Fair value of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Plans with Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Fair Value of Plan Assets
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Components of Long-term debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
Plan Asset Categories [Domain]
US equity securities
US Equity Securities [Member]
This category includes information about ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is neither mandatorily redeemable no redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants in the US
Non-US equity securities
Non-US Equity Securities [Member]
Non-US Equity Securities [Member]
Fixed-income securities
Fixed Income Securities [Member]
Other
Real Estate Funds [Member]
Target allocation
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations
Percentage of plan assets as of December 31,
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Plan Asset Allocations
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Capital lease obligations incurred
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Noncontrolling Interest [Table]
Noncontrolling Interest [Table]
Net income (loss) attributable to The E.W. Scripps Company shareholders:
Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Net income (loss)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions By Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
McGraw-Hill Broadcasting Company Inc
McGraw Hill Broadcasting Company Inc [Member]
McGraw-Hill broadcasting company inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Operating revenues
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Loss from continuing operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Changes in Accounting and Extraordinary Items, Net of Tax
Loss per share from continuing operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company:
Earnings Per Share, Pro Forma [Abstract]
Basic (USD per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Changes in Accounting and Extraordinary Items, Net of Tax, Per Share, Basic
Diluted (USD per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Changes in Accounting and Extraordinary Items, Net of Tax, Per Share, Diluted
Noncontrolling interest Memphis Newspaper
Minority Interest Ownership Percentage by Individuals and Other Entities in Company Publishes News Paper One
Minority interest ownership percentage by individuals and other entities in company publishes news paper one.
Noncontrolling interest Evansville Newspaper
Minority Interest Ownership Percentage by Individuals and Other Entities in Company Publishes News Paper Two
Minority interest ownership percentage by individuals and other entities in company publishes newspaper two.
Change in certain working capital accounts
Cash Flow, Operating Capital [Table Text Block]
Information regarding supplemental cash flow disclosures
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Other liabilities
Schedule of Other Liabilities Noncurrent [Table Text Block]
Schedule of other liabilities noncurrent.
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits [Roll Forward]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Increases in tax positions for prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Decreases in tax positions for prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Increases in tax positions for current year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Decreases from lapse in statute of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Settlements
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of year
Schedule of net income (loss) attributable to parent
Schedule of Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Table Text Block]
Components of basic and diluted weighted-average shares
Components of Basic and Diluted Weighted Average Shares [Abstract]
Components of basic and diluted weighted average shares.
Numerator (for basic earnings per share)
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company
Less income allocated to unvested restricted stock and RSUs
Undistributed Earnings Allocated to Participating Securities
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Denominator
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Effect of dilutive securities:
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment [Abstract]
Stock options held by employees and directors
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Anti-dilutive securities
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and entity information.
Document Information [Table]
Document Information [Table]
Common Class A
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Amendment Flag
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Public Float
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Domain]
Award Type [Domain]
Stock Options
Stock Options [Member]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
2003 – expire in 2013
Options Granted, Range Two [Member]
Options Granted, Range Two [Member]
2004 – expire in 2014
Options Granted, Range Three [Member]
Options Granted, Range Three [Member]
2005 – expire in 2013
Options Granted, Range Four [Member]
Options Granted, Range Four [Member]
2006 – expire in 2014
Options Granted, Range Five [Member]
Options Granted, Range Five [Member]
2007 – expire in 2015
Options Granted, Range Six [Member]
Options Granted, Range Six [Member]
2008 – expire in 2016
Options Granted, Range Seven [Member]
Options Granted, Range Seven [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Information about options outstanding and options exercisable by year of grant
Share Based Compensation Shares, Authorized Under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Abstract]
-- None. No documentation exists for this element. --
Range of Exercise Prices, Lower Range Limit (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit
Range of Exercise Prices, Upper Range Limit (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit
Average Remaining Term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options on Shares Outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Options on Shares Exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Options Exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of quarterly financial information
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units
Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units [Member]
Shares and stock units that an entity has not yet issued because the agreed-upon consideration, such as employee services, has not yet been received.
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Fair value of shares and units vested
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value
Tax benefits realized on shares and units vested
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Shares and Units Vested
Disclosure of the aggregate tax benefit realized from the shares and units vested during the annual period.
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Property, plant and equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Investments, primarily gains and losses not yet recognized for tax purposes
Deferred Tax Assets, Investments
Accrued expenses not deductible until paid
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities
Deferred compensation and retiree benefits not deductible until paid
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits
Other temporary differences, net
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Total temporary differences
Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Gross, Before Deferred Tax Asset Net Operating Loss
Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences gross of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences and carryforwards after valuation allowances.
State net operating loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local
Valuation allowance for state deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Pro forma results of operations
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Weighted average discount rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate
Increase in compensation levels
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Table]
Schedule of assets lacking physical substance, excluding goodwill
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Television network affiliation relationships
Television Network Affiliation Relationships [Member]
Television network affiliation relationships.
Customer lists and advertiser relationships
Customer Lists and Advertiser Relationships [Member]
Customer lists and advertiser relationships.
Other
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Licensing agreements
Licensing Agreements [Member]
Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Line Items]
Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Line Items]
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Amortizable intangible assets:
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract]
Carrying amount:
Carrying Amount [Abstract]
Carrying amount.
Total carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated amortization:
Accumulated Amortization [Abstract]
Accumulated amortization.
Total accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Net amortizable intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Other indefinite-lived intangible assets - FCC licenses
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Total other intangible assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Defined benefit plans
Multi-employer plans
Multiemployer Plans, Postretirement Benefit [Member]
Defined contribution plans
Defined Contribution Plan [Member]
Defined contributions made to individual retirement accounts based on employee's age and compensation.
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets
Amortization of prior service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit)
Amortization of actuarial (gain)/loss
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses)
Curtailments/Settlement losses
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments
Total for defined benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Period Increase (Decrease)
Net periodic benefit cost - continuing operations
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense
Acquisitions
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of investments
Schedule of Investments [Table Text Block]
schedule of investments [Table Text Block]
Summary of other intangible assets
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Goodwill by business segment
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Interest paid, excluding amounts capitalized
Interest Paid, Net
Income taxes paid
Income Taxes Paid
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Business Segments [Axis]
Business Segments [Axis]
Segment [Domain]
Segment [Domain]
Television
Television [Member]
Television.
Newspapers
Newspapers [Member]
Newspapers.
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Summary of activity related to goodwill by business segment
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract]
Gross balance
Goodwill, Gross
Accumulated impairment losses
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance, end of period
Acquisition in 2011
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Purchase accounting adjustments in 2012
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments
Balance, end of period
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Notional amounts and fair values of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
Notional Amounts and Fair Values of Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges [Table Text Block]
Notional amounts and fair values of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges.
Effective portion of the unrealized gain and loss on the derivative
Schedule of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]
Discount rate
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate
Long-term rate of return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Return on Assets
Increase in compensation levels
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase
Allowances for accounts and notes receivable
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Preferred stock, par value (USD per share)
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred stock, shares authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, shares outstanding
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Common stock, par value (USD per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, shares outstanding
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2014
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2015
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2016
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2017
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for later years
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Restricted Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Land and improvements
Land and Land Improvements [Member]
Buildings and improvements
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Equipment
Equipment [Member]
Computer software
Software [Member]
Property, plant and equipment, gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Net property, plant and equipment
Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Changes in fair value of derivatives, tax amount
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax
Changes in defined pension plans, tax amount
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Total share-based compensation
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Share-based compensation, net of tax
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax
Accumulated benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation
Change in Projected Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward]
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Service cost
Interest cost
Benefits paid
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid
Actuarial losses
Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Gain (Loss)
Curtailments/Settlements
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments and Settlements, Benefit Obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments and Settlements, Benefit Obligation
Projected benefit obligation at end of year
Plan Assets:
Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward]
Fair value at beginning of year
Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets
Actual return on plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets
Company contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer
Benefits paid
Curtailments/Settlements
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments and Settlements, Plan Assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments and Settlements, Plan Assets
Fair value at end of year
Funded status
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan
Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets:
Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet [Abstract]
Current liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities
Amounts Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss:
Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), after Tax [Abstract]
Unrecognized net actuarial loss
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gains (Losses), before Tax
Unrecognized prior service cost
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax
Total
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block]
Spin Off of Company [Abstract]
Spin-off of scripps networks interactive, inc.
Spin-off of Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc.
Spin Off of Company [Text Block]
Spin off of scripps networks interactive, inc.
Changes in fair value of derivative, net of tax of $610
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Changes in defined pension plans, net of tax of $10,893; $9,961 and $6,092
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax
Other
Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax
Total comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Less comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Axis]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
Share Repurchase Program [Domain]
First Repurchase Plan
First Repurchase Plan [Member]
First Repurchase Plan [Member]
Second Share Repurchase Plan
Second Share Repurchase Plan [Member]
Second Share Repurchase Plan [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Classes of common shares
Common Shares, Classes
The number of classes of common shares.
Minimum number of directors up for election to entitle shareholders to vote
Common Stock, Minumum Number of Directors up for Election, Common Stockholder Participation
The minimum number of directors up for election that allows common shareholders to participate in the election.
Minumum percent of directors up for election to entitle shareholders to vote
Common Stock, Minumum Percent of Directors up for Election, Common Stockholder Participation
The minimum percent of directors up for election that allows common shareholders to participate in the election.
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Stock repurchased during period, value
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
Range of price of shares repurchased
Stock Repurchase Price
Stock repurchase price.
Additional repurchase of common shares
Stock Repurchase Program Additional Authorized Repurchase Amount
Stock repurchase program additional authorized repurchase amount.
Number of shares available for future stock compensation grants
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Purchase price of stock options granted, percent of fair market value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent
Vesting period of stock options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Total unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock, RSUs and performance shares
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options
Weighted-average period of recognition, years
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Summarized Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Long-Term Debt
Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Marketing services
Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Product concentration
Product Concentration Risk [Member]
Customer lists and other intangible assets
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Operating revenues derived from marketing services, including advertising
Concentration Risk, Percentage
FCC license term
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Weighted-Average Period before Renewal or Extension
Estimated useful life
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Estimated liabilities for unpaid claims
Self Insurance Reserve
Tax refund paid to Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc.
Spin-off of Company, Payment of Tax Refund Claims for Prior Years
Payment of tax refund claims for prior years.
Reimbursement of estimated taxes
Tax audit settlement paid by Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc.
Spin-off of Company, Tax Settlements, Paid by Spin-off
Settlement of audits by spin-off company.
Reimbursement to Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc. for tax audit settlements
Spin-off of Company, Tax Settlements, Paid By Continuing Operations
Settlement of audits by continuing operations.
Carryback claim filed for capital losses incurred by Scripps Networks Interactive, Inc.
Spin-off of Company, Capital Losses, Carryback Claim Filed
Carryback claim filed for capital losses incurred by disposal group.
Adjustments to net assets distributed
Spin-off of Company, Adjustments to Net Assets Distributed, Allocation and Settlement of Tax Accounts and Employee Benefit Plans
Benefit associated with any adjustment to net assets distributed, primarily related to the allocation and settlement of tax accounts and employee benefit plans, as the result of a disposal or discontinued operation.
Reduction in taxes payable upon exercise of award benefits
Spin-Off of Company, Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options
Disclosure of the aggregate tax benefit realized from the exercise of stock options related to spin-off company and the conversion of similar instruments during the annual period.
Value of SNI options held by employees
Spin-Off of Company, Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Amount by which the current fair value of the underlying stock exceeds the exercise price of options outstanding related to spin-off company
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Financial Instruments (Textual) [Abstract]
Financial Instruments (Textual) [Abstract]
Financial instruments.
Notional Amount
Notional Amount of Derivative Instruments Designated as Net Investment Hedges
Fixed LIBOR interest rate
Fixed LIBOR Interest Rate
Fixed LIBOR interest rate.
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding and Exercisable [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Options outstanding at beginning of period, number of shares
Options exercised in period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Options forfeited in period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period
Options outstanding at end of period, number of shares
Options outstanding and exercisable, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding and Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Roll Forward]
Options outstanding at beginning of period, weighted-average exercise price (USD per share)
Options exercised in period, weighted-average exercise price (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options forfeited in period, weighted-average exercise price (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options outstanding at end of period, weighted-average exercise price (USD per share)
Options outstanding and exercisable, weighted-average exercise price (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding and Exercisable, Exercise Price Range [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Exercise Price Range [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Exercise Price Range
Options outstanding at beginning of period, lower end of range of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Minimum Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Minimum Exercise Price
Options outstanding at beginning of period, upper end of range of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Maximum Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Maximum Exercise Price
Options exercised, lower end of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Minimum Exercise Price
Minimum price at which option holders acquired shares when converting their stock options into shares.
Options exercised, upper end of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Maximum Exercise Price
Maximum price at which option holders acquired shares when converting their stock options into shares.
Options forfeited, lower end of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Minimum Exercise Price
Minimum price at which grantees could have acquired the underlying shares with respect to stock options that were terminated.
Options forfeited, upper end of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Maximum Exercise Price
Maximum price at which grantees could have acquired the underlying shares with respect to stock options that were terminated.
Options outstanding at end of period, lower end of range of exercise price range (USD per share)
Options outstanding at end of period, upper end of range of exercise price range (USD per share)
Options exercisable, lower end of exercise price range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Minimum Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Minimum Exercise Price
Options exercisable, upper end of exercise price range
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Maximum Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Maximum Exercise Price
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Recurring Measurements
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Financial Instruments, Financial Assets, Balance Sheet Groupings [Abstract]
Interest rate swap assets/(liabilities)
Derivative Assets
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Operating revenues
Revenue, Net
Costs and expenses
Operating Costs and Expenses
Depreciation and amortization of intangibles
Impairment of long-lived assets
Gains (losses), net on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Miscellaneous, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Benefit (provision) for income taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company
Net income (loss) per basic share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company (USD per share)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share
Net income (loss) per diluted share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company (USD per share)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding
Cash dividends per share of common stock (USD per share)
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Cash received upon exercise
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options
Intrinsic value (market value on date of exercise less exercise price)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value
Tax benefits realized
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit Realized from Exercise of Stock Options
Buildings and Improvements
Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member]
Printing Press
Printing Press [Member]
Printing Press [Member]
Other Newspaper Production Equipment
Other Newspaper Production Equipment [Member]
Other Newspaper Production Equipment [Member]
Television Transmission Towers and Related Equipment
Television Transmission Towers and Related Equipment [Member]
Television Transmission Towers and Related Equipment [Member]
Other Television and Program Production Equipment
Other Television and Program Production Equipment [Member]
Other Television and Program Production Equipment [Member]
Computer Hardware and Software
Computer Hardware and Software [Member]
Computer Hardware and Software [Member]
Office and Other Equipment
Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Employee Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract]
Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Unvested shares at beginning of period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Shares and units awarded in period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Shares and units vested in period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Shares and units forfeited in period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Unvested shares at end of period, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Roll Forward]
Unvested shares at beginning of period, weighted-average value (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Shares and units awarded in period, weighted-average value (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Shares and units vested in period, weighted-average value (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Shares and units forfeited in period, weighted-average value (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested shares at end of period, weighted-average value (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Exercise Price Range [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Lower Range of Exercise Price Range [Roll Forward]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Lower Range of Exercise Price Range [Roll Forward]
Unvested shares and units, range of exercise prices, beginning of period, lower range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Minimum Exercise Price
The minimum grant exercise price of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date.
Unvested shares and units, range of exercise prices, beginning of period, upper range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Maximum Exercise Price
The maximum grant exercise price of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date.
Shares and units awarded in period, range of exercise prices, lower range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Minimum Exercise Price
The minimum exercise prices of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan).
Shares and units awarded in period, range of exercise prices, upper range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Maximum Exercise Price
The maximum exercise price of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan).
Shares and units vested in period, range of exercise prices, lower range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Minimum Exercise Price
The minimum exercise prices of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that vested during the reporting period.
Shares and units vested in period, range of exercise prices, upper range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Maximum Exercise Price
The maximum exercise price of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that vested during the reporting period.
Shares and units forfeited in period, range of exercise prices, lower range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Minimum Exercise Price
The minimum exercise price of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were forfeited during the reporting period.
Shares and units forfeited in period, range of exercise prices, upper range (USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Maximum Exercise Price
The maximum exercise price of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were forfeited during the reporting period.
Unvested shares and units, range of exercise prices, end of period, lower range (USD per share)
Unvested shares and units, range of exercise prices, end of period, upper range (USD per share)
Provision for income taxes
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Effective income tax rate reconciliation
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of deferred income tax (liabilities) assets
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Gross unrecognized tax benefit reconciliation
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Equity securities, Common/collective trust funds
Equity Securities, Common and Collective Trust Funds [Member]
Equity Securities, Common and Collective Trust funds [Member]
Equity securities, Other
Equity Securities, Other [Member]
Fixed income, Common/collective trust funds
Fixed Income, Common and Collective Trust Funds [Member]
Fixed Income, Common and Collective Trust Funds [Member]
Fixed income, Other
Other Debt Obligations [Member]
Real Estate Fund
Cash equivalents
Cash Equivalents [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract]
Accounts receivable
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Receivables
Other current assets
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Investments
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Investments
Business acquisition, purchase price allocation, investments.
Property, plant and equipment
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment
Intangible assets
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets Other than Goodwill
Goodwill
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount
Total assets acquired
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired
Current liabilities
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Liabilities
Net purchase price
Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net
Notional amounts and fair values of derivatives designated as cash flow
Summary of Derivative Instruments by Hedge Designation [Abstract]
Notional Amount
Notional Amount of Cash Flow Hedge Instruments
Fair Value, Asset
Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Assets at Fair Value
Fair Value, Liability
Cash Flow Hedge Derivative Instrument Liabilities at Fair Value
Current year actuarial gain/(loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax
Amortization of actuarial (gain)/loss
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Amortization of prior service cost
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax
Total
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax
Equity securities
Equity Securities [Member]
Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain]
Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain]
CWA/ITU
CWA ITU Negotiated Pension Plan [Member]
CWA ITU Negotiated Pension Plan [Member]
GCIU
GCIU-Employer Retirement Fund [Member]
GCIU-Employer Retirement Fund
Amortization of actuarial gain (loss)
Current year actuarial gain (loss)
Settlement loss
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, before Tax
Period of consideration for historical plan asset rate of return
Defined Benefit Plan, Period of Consideration for Historical Plan Asset Rate of Return
Number of years considered when evaluating the rate of return on plan assets in a defined benefit plan.
Expected amortization of actuarial loss from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit costs
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses)
Expected contributions to benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year
Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in 2013
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Next Twelve Months
Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in 2014
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Two
Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in 2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Three
Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in 2016
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Four
Estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid in 2017
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Year Five
Total estimated future benefit payments expected to be paid for the five years ending 2022
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter
Target plan asset allocations range
Defined Benefit Plan, Target Plan Asset Allocations Range Minimum
Historical period considered
Fair Value Assumptions, Historical Period Considered
Historical period considered for the instrument, asset or liability in fair value assumptions, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days.
Percentage of total contributions made to multi-employer plans
Multiemployer Plans, Collective Bargaining Arrangement, Percentage Of Contributions Represented
Percentage of total contributions to a collective bargaining arrangement related to a pension or postretirement benefit plan to which two or more unrelated employers contribute where assets contributed by one participating employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.
Number of multi-employer pension plans
Number of Multi-Employer Pension Plans
Number of multi-employer pension plans participated in.
Number of multi-employer plans deemed significant
Number of Multi-Employer Pension Plans Deemed Significant
Number of multi-employer pension plans participated in that are deemed significant.
Multi-employer plan withdrawal liability
Multiemployer Plans, Withdrawal Obligation
Advertiser relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
ABC affiliates
ABC Affiliates [Member]
ABC affiliates.
Azteca affiliates
Azteca Affiliates [Member]
Azteca affiliates.
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Acquisition (Textual) [Abstract]
Acquisition.
Acquisition cost in cash
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid
Working capital adjustment
Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Other Noncash Consideration
Number of television stations acquired
Number of Stations Acquired
Number of stations acquired
Goodwill accounting adjustments
Purchase price allocated to intangible assets
FCC licenses acquired
Acquired Indefinite-lived Intangible Asset, Amount
Value of television network affiliation relationships acquired
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Asset, Amount
Estimated Amortization Period
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table]
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Pension Protection Act Zone Status
Multiemployer Plans, Certified Zone Status
FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented
Multiemployer Plans, Funding Improvement Plan and Rehabilitation Plan
Contributions of the Company
Multiemployer Plans, Plan Contributions
Surcharge Imposed
Multiemployer Plans, Surcharge
Expiration Date of Collective-Bargaining Agreement
Multiemployer Plans, Collective-Bargaining Arrangement, Expiration Date
Rocky Mountain News
Rocky Mountain News [Member]
Rocky Mountain News [Member]
Operating revenues
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Income from discontinued operations, before tax:
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax
Income tax expense
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation
Income from discontinued operations
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Employee compensation and benefits
Employee Compensation and Benefits Non Current
Employee compensation and benefits non current.
Liability for pension benefits
Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Liabilities for uncertain tax positions
Liability for Uncertain Tax Positions, Noncurrent
Other
Other Sundry Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other liabilities (less current portion)
Other Liabilities Non Current
Other liabilities less current portion.
Current:
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Current Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current State and local
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current Total
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax benefits of compensation plans allocated to additional paid-in capital
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity, Compensation
The tax effects of compensation transactions that are recognized differently for financial reporting and tax purposes, occurring during the period and charged or credited directly to shareholders' equity.
Total current income tax provision
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Current
The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts of income taxes paid or payable (or refundable) for the period for all income tax obligations, net of tax benefits allocated directly to equity, as determined by applying the provisions of relevant enacted tax laws to relevant amounts of taxable Income or Loss from continuing operations.
Deferred Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Other
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Total
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred tax allocated to other comprehensive income
Deferred Other Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred income tax provision
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Deferred
The component of income tax expense for the period representing amounts of income taxes paid or payable (or refundable) for the period for all income tax obligations, net of tax benefits allocated directly to equity, as determined by applying the provisions of relevant enacted tax laws to relevant amounts of taxable Income or Loss from continuing operations.
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
Change in certain working capital accounts
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net
Other Changes in Certain Working Capital Accounts Net [Abstract]
Other changes in certain working capital accounts net.
Accounts and notes receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Notes Receivable
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Income taxes receivable/payable — net
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable, Net of Income Taxes Receivable
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Accrued employee compensation and benefits
Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities
Other accrued liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities
Other, net
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net
Total
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Statement, Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Common Stock
Additional Paid-in Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance
Spin off of SNI
Stockholders' Equity Note, Spinoff Transaction
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders
Changes in defined pension plans
Change in fair value of derivative
Currency translation adjustment
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Repurchase 6,216,610 Class A Common Shares in 2011 and 2,478,453 Class A Common Shares in 2012
Compensation plans: 3,661,797 net shares issued in 2010 and 6,216,610 in 2011 and 3,718,800 in 2012
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Excess tax expense of compensation plans
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Other
Stockholders' Equity, Other
Balance
Schedule of options outstanding and exercisable
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of cash proceeds received from exercises of stock options
Schedule of Cash Proceeds Received from Share-based Payment Awards [Table Text Block]
Restricted stock and restricted stock unit vesting activity
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block]
Additional information about restricted stock and restricted stock unit vesting
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Restricted Stock Units, Vested and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block]
Schedule of stock compensation costs
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan [Table Text Block]
Capital Stock and Share Based Compensation Plans
Shareholders' Equity and Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Shares issued on compensation plans
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Repurchase of common shares
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Investments held at cost
Cost Method Investments
Equity method investments
Equity Method Investments
Total investments
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Hedge Fund
Hedge Funds, Equity [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Realized gains/(losses)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Realized Gain (Loss)
This item represents the amount of the total realized gains or losses for the period; the fair value of which assets was or is measured on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
Unrealized gains/(losses)
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unrealized Gain (Loss)
This item represents the amount of the total unrealized gains or losses for the period; the fair value of which assets was or is measured on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3).
Purchases
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases
Sales
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales
Ending Balance
Information regarding business segments
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Agreement Type [Axis]
Agreement Type [Axis]
Agreement type.
Agreement Type [Domain]
Agreement Type [Domain]
Agreement type.
Financing Agreement
Financing Agreement [Member]
Financing agreement.
Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Long Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Long term debt.
Revolving credit and term loan agreement to finance acquisition
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Line of credit facility expiration period
Line of Credit Facility Expiration Period
Line of credit facility expiration period.
LIBOR plus margin range
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Base interest rate
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End
Weighted average interest rate
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2013
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2014
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2015
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2016
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
Restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase, maximum
Restricted Payment for Dividend and Share Repurchase Maximum
Restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase maximum.
Additional restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase, maximum
Additional Restricted Payment for Dividend and Share Repurchase Based on Financial Results and Condition Maximum
Additional restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase based on financial results and condition maximum.
Restriction amount related to acquisitions maximum
Restriction Amount Related to Acquisitions Maximum
Restriction amount related to acquisitions maximum.
Restriction amount related to acquisitions based on financial results and condition maximum
Restriction Amount Related to Acquisitions Based on Financial Results and Condition Maximum
Restriction amount related to acquisitions based on financial results and condition maximum.
Percentage of commitment fees of total unused commitment under revolving credit facility
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage
Letters of credit outstanding amount
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
NBC affiliates
Nbc Affiliates [Member]
NBC affiliates.
Independent station
Independent Station [Member]
Independent station.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment information (Textual) [Abstract]
Segment Information (Textual) [Abstract]
Segment information.
Number of affiliates in television segment
Number of Affiliates
Number of affiliates in television segment.
Percentage of market capture
Percentage of Market Capture
Percentage of market capture.
Number of markets for daily and community newspapers
Number of Markets for Daily and Community Newspapers
Number of markets for daily and community newspapers.
Number of major customers customers
Number of Major Customer
Number of major customer.
Percentage of revenue by major customer
Percentage of Revenue by Major Customer
Percentage of revenue by major customer.
Asset Write-Downs and Other Charges and Credits [Abstract]
Asset Write-Downs and Other Charges and Credits
Restructuring charges
Restructuring Charges
Impairment of investments
Other than Temporary Impairment Losses, Investments
Acquisition and related integration costs
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Nature of Operations
Nature of Operations [Policy Text Block]
Nature of operations.
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration Risks
Concentration Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for basis related to concentration risks.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventories
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Trade Receivables
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investments
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Programs and Program Licenses
Amortizable Licenses, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for finite-lived licenses required to conduct business. This accounting policy also might address: (1) the amortization method used; (2) the useful lives of such assets; and (3) how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets.
Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Subject to Impairment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for goodwill and indefinite lived assets. This accounting policy also may address how the entity assesses whether events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life and how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets.
Amortizable Intangible Assets
Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Self-Insured Risks
Self-Insurance Liability, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Disclosure of accounting policy for accruing costs for self-insured liabilities.
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Newsprint and Press Supplies
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Share-Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings Per Share (EPS)
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
JOA and newspaper partnerships
JOA and Newspaper Partnerships [Member]
JOA and Newspaper Partnerships [Member]
Syndication and other
Syndication and Other [Member]
Syndication and other.
Investments
Investment Assets [Member]
Investment Assets [Member]
Corporate and shared services
Corporate and Shared Services [Member]
Corporate and shared services.
Information regarding business segments
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Segment operating revenues:
Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract]
Total operating revenues
Segment profit (loss):
Segment Profit Loss [Abstract]
Segment profit loss.
Segment profit (loss)
Segment Information Reporting Operation ProfitLoss
Segment information reporting operation profit loss.
Depreciation and amortization of intangibles
Interest expense
Pension expense
Pension Expense
Acquisition and related integration costs
Separation and restructuring costs
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest
Depreciation:
Depreciation [Abstract]
Total depreciation
Depreciation
Amortization of intangibles:
Amortization [Abstract]
Total amortization of intangibles
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Additions to property, plant and equipment:
Movement in Property, Plant and Equipment [Roll Forward]
Total additions to property, plant and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions
Total assets
Income Statement [Abstract]
Operating Revenues:
Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Abstract]
Advertising
Advertising Revenue
Circulation
Subscription and Circulation Revenue
Other
Other Revenue, Net
Total operating revenues
Costs and Expenses:
Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Employee compensation and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Programs and program licenses
Programs and Program Licenses
Program and program licensing expenses.
Newsprint and press supplies
Newsprint and Press Supplies
Newsprint and press supply expenses.
Newspaper distribution
Newspaper Distribution Expense
Expenses related to newspaper distribution.
Other expenses
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Pension expense
Separation and restructuring costs
Total costs and expenses
Depreciation, Amortization, and Losses (Gains):
Depreciation Amortization and Gain (Losses) [Abstract]
Depreciation, amortization, and gains (losses).
Depreciation
Amortization of intangible assets
Impairment of long-lived assets
Gains (losses), net on disposal of property, plant and equipment
Net depreciation, amortization, and losses (gains)
Net Depreciation, Amortization and Losses
Net depreciation, amortization and (gains) losses
Operating income (loss)
Operating Income (Loss)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income (loss) per basic share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E. W. Scripps Company:
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations (USD per share)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (USD per share)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share
Net income (loss) per basic share of common stock (USD per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Net income (loss) per diluted share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company:
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations (USD per share)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (USD per share)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share
Net income (loss) per diluted share of common stock (USD per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic
Diluted
Components of benefit expense
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block]
Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of assumptions used
Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block]
Schedule of employee benefit plan assets and obligations
Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Balance Sheet and Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]
Tabular disclosure of the amounts that are recognized in the balance sheet (or statement of financial position) for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans, showing separately the assets and current and noncurrent liabilities (if applicable) recognized and the net funded status of those plans.
Schedule of pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of pension plans with a projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Schedule of Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of allocation of pension plan assets by asset category
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Plan assets measured using the fair value hierarchy
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Reconciliation of Level 3 assets
Schedule of Effect of Significant Unobservable Inputs, Changes in Plan Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of multi-employer plans
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block]
Discontinued Operations
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]
Income Tax Contingency [Table]
Income Tax Contingency [Table]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
State
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
State net operating loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Deferred tax assets
Potential affect of unrecognized tax benefits on effective tax rate
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Interest accrued on unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued
Income Tax Benefit, Recognition of Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Income Tax Benefit, Recognition of Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Income Tax Benefit, Recognition of Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Current period tax benefit due to realization of previously unrecognized tax benefits
Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority
Potential change in unrecognized tax benefits
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit
Asset Write-Downs and Other Charges and Credits
Asset Write Downs And Other Charges And Credits [Text Block]
Asset Write Downs And Other Charges And Credits [Text Block]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Year Ended December 31:
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance Beginning of Period
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance
Additions Charged to Revenues, Costs, Expenses
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Revenues, Costs, and Expenses
Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against revenues, the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, charged to costs and expenses.
Deductions Amounts Charged Off-Net
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions
Increase (Decrease) Recorded Acquisitions (Divestitures)
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments for Acquisitions and Divestitures
Adjustment made to the allowance for doubtful accounts valuation in consideration of acquisitions and divestitures.
Balance End of Period