Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Leases [Abstract]
Remainder of 2020
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year
2021
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two
2022
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three
2023
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four
2024
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five
Thereafter
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five
Total future minimum lease payments
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due
Less: Imputed interest
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount
Total
Operating Lease, Liability
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt
Long-term Debt [Text Block]
Cover [Abstract]
Document Information [Table]
Document Information [Table]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Common stock, Class A
Common Class A [Member]
Voting common stock
Voting Common Stock [Member]
Voting common stock.
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type
Document Quarterly Report
Document Quarterly Report
Document Period End Date
Document Transition Report
Document Transition Report
Entity File Number
Entity File Number
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code
Entity Tax Identification Number
Entity Tax Identification Number
Entity Address, Address Line One
Entity Address, Address Line One
Entity Address, City or Town
Entity Address, City or Town
Entity Address, State or Province
Entity Address, State or Province
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code
City Area Code
City Area Code
Local Phone Number
Local Phone Number
Title of 12(b) Security
Title of 12(b) Security
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Security Exchange Name
Security Exchange Name
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Interactive Data Current
Entity Interactive Data Current
Entity Filer Category
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Shell Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Amendment Flag
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Shares issued on compensation plans
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Repurchase of Class A Common shares
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Unsatisfied performance obligation
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Unearned revenue
Contract with Customer, Liability, Current
Prior year unearned revenue recognized in period
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
Share-based compensation costs
Share-based Compensation
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of Earnings Per Share, amount
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Change in certain working capital accounts
Cash Flow, Operating Capital [Table Text Block]
Lessee, Lease, Description [Table]
Lessee, Lease, Description [Table]
Range [Axis]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Remaining lease terms
Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract
Option to extend leases
Lessee, Operating Lease, Renewal Term
Option to terminate leases
Lessee, Operating Lease, Termination Period
Lessee, Operating Lease, Termination Period
Operating lease costs
Operating Lease, Cost
Short-term lease costs
Short-term Lease, Cost
Components of Long-term debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Reporting Unit [Axis]
Reporting Unit [Axis]
Reporting Unit [Domain]
Reporting Unit [Domain]
Other Reporting Units
Other Reporting Units [Member]
Other Reporting Units [Member]
Local Media
Local Media Segment [Member]
Local Media Segment [Member]
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]
Other intangible asset
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets - FCC licenses
Licensing Agreements [Member]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year One
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Reporting Unit, Percentage of Fair Value in Excess of Carrying Amount
Reporting Unit, Percentage of Fair Value in Excess of Carrying Amount
Goodwill
Goodwill
Goodwill, Percentage Of Consolidated Goodwill Total
Goodwill, Percentage Of Consolidated Goodwill Total
Goodwill, Percentage Of Consolidated Goodwill Total
Intangible Asset, Sensitivity Analysis of Fair Value, Impact Of 50 Basis Point Increase In Discount Rate
Intangible Asset, Sensitivity Analysis of Fair Value, Impact Of 50 Basis Point Increase In Discount Rate
Intangible Asset, Sensitivity Analysis of Fair Value, Impact Of 50 Basis Point Increase In Discount Rate
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Principles of Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Nature of Operations
Nature of Operations [Policy Text Block]
Nature of operations.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Nature of Products and Services
Nature Of Products And Services [Policy Text Block]
Nature Of Products And Services [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition and Contract Balances
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block]
Transaction Price Allocated to Remaining Performance Obligations
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Provision for Loss [Policy Text Block]
Leases
Lessee, Leases [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]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
National Media
National Media Segment [Member]
National Media Segment [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, gross, beginning balance
Goodwill, Gross
Accumulated impairment losses, beginning balance
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss
Goodwill net, beginning balance
Goodwill, gross, ending balance
Accumulated impairment losses, ending balance
Goodwill net, ending balance
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Domain]
Product and Service [Domain]
Core advertising
Core Advertising Revenue [Member]
Core Advertising Revenue [Member]
Political
Political Advertising Revenue [Member]
Political Advertising Revenue [Member]
Retransmission and carriage
Retransmission Revenue [Member]
Retransmission Revenue [Member]
Other
Other Revenue [Member]
Other Revenue [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total operating revenues
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax
Income Statement [Abstract]
Advertising
Advertising [Member]
Retransmission and carriage
Retransmission And Carriage [Member]
Retransmission And Carriage [Member]
Other
Operating Revenues:
Revenues [Abstract]
Total operating revenues
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax
Costs and Expenses:
Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Employee compensation and benefits
Labor and Related Expense
Programming
Programming Expense
Programming Expense
Other expenses
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Acquisition and related integration costs
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Restructuring costs
Restructuring Charges
Total costs and expenses
Operating Costs and Expenses
Depreciation, Amortization, and (Gains) Losses:
Depreciation Amortization and Gain (Losses) [Abstract]
Depreciation, amortization, and gains (losses).
Depreciation
Depreciation
Amortization of intangible assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
(Gains) losses, net on disposal of property and equipment
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment, Excluding Oil and Gas Property and Timber Property
Net depreciation, amortization, and (gains) losses
Net Depreciation, Amortization and Losses
Net depreciation, amortization and (gains) losses
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Defined benefit pension plan expense
Pension Cost (Reversal of Cost)
Miscellaneous, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Loss from operations before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest
Provision (benefit) for income taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net loss
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net income (loss) per basic share of common stock attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company:
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Net loss per basic share of common stock
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]
Net loss per diluted share of common stock
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Components of benefit expense
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [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 and diluted earnings per share)
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract]
Net loss
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Income allocated to RSUs
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic and Diluted
Undistributed Earnings (Loss) Allocated to Participating Securities, Basic and Diluted
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted
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:
Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract]
Restricted stock units
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Operating Lease, Payments
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
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.
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Stock repurchased during period, value
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
Stock repurchased during period (in dollars per share)
Stock Repurchased During Period, Price Paid Per Share
Stock Repurchased During Period, Price Paid Per Share
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Text Block]
Entire disclosure of information about items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
Capital Stock
Shareholders' Equity and Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
ABC affiliates
ABC Affiliates [Member]
ABC affiliates.
NBC affiliates
Nbc Affiliates [Member]
NBC affiliates.
CBS affiliates
CBS Affiliates [Member]
CBS Affiliates [Member]
FOX affiliates
FOX Affiliates [Member]
FOX Affiliates [Member]
CW affiliates
CW Affiliate [Member]
CW Affiliate [Member]
My TV Affiliates
My TV Affiliates [Member]
My TV Affiliates [Member]
Independent station
Independent Station [Member]
Independent station.
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number Of Local Broadcast Stations
Number Of Local Broadcast Stations
Number Of Local Broadcast Stations
Number of affiliates
Number Of Affiliates
Number of Affiliates
Number Of Full Power Stations
Number Of Full Power Stations
Number Of Full Power Stations
Number Of Multicast
Number Of Multicast
Number Of Multicast
Number of low power stations operated
Number Of Low Power Stations Operated
Number Of Low Power Stations Operated
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Preliminary Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Pro Forma Information
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Retained Earnings [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (AOCI)
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Equity, beginning balance
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total Equity, beginning balance
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Cash dividend declared and paid
Dividends
Repurchase of Class A Common shares
Compensation plans
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Equity, ending balance
Total Equity, ending balance
Tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs
Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Schedule of Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Summary of other finite-lived intangible assets
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Summary of other indefinite-lived intangible assets
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Defined benefit plans
Pension Plan [Member]
SERPs
Supplemental Employee Retirement Plan [Member]
Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis]
Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis]
Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain]
Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain]
Multi-employer plans
Multiemployer Plans, Postretirement Benefit [Member]
Retirement Plan Name [Axis]
Retirement Plan Name [Axis]
Retirement Plan Name [Domain]
Retirement Plan Name [Domain]
Defined contribution plans
Defined Contribution Plan [Member]
Defined contributions made to individual retirement accounts based on employee's age and compensation.
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) [Abstract]
Interest cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost
Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets
Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gain (Loss)
Total for defined benefit pension plan
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Period Increase (Decrease)
Net periodic benefit cost
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Cost (Reversal of Cost)
Information regarding business segments
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Disaggregation of Principal Revenue Generating Activities
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Credit Facility [Domain]
Revolving credit facility
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Amended and restated revolving credit facility
Amended And Restated Revolving Credit Facility, Variable Rate Facility [Member]
Amended And Restated Revolving Credit Facility, Variable Rate Facility [Member]
Senior unsecured notes, due in 2025
Senior 5.125% Unsecured Notes, Due 2025 [Member]
Senior 5.125% Unsecured Notes, Due 2025 [Member]
Senior unsecured notes, due 2027
Senior Unsecured Notes, Due 2027 [Member]
Senior Unsecured Notes, Due 2027 [Member]
Term Loan B, Maturing 2024
Term Loan B, Maturing 2024 [Member]
Term Loan B, Maturing 2024 [Member]
Term Loan B, Maturing 2026
Term Loan B-1, Maturing 2026 [Member]
Term Loan B-1, Maturing 2026 [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Senior unsecured notes
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Components of Long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Current and Noncurrent [Abstract]
Total outstanding principal
Long-term Debt
Less: Debt issuance costs and issuance discounts
Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Less: Current portion
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Long-term debt (less current portion)
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Fair value of long-term debt
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Other
Other Segments [Member]
Shared services and corporate
Shared Services and Corporate [Member]
Shared services and corporate
Information regarding business segments
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Segment profit (loss)
Acquisition and related integration costs
Restructuring costs
Depreciation and amortization of intangible assets
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Gains (losses), net on disposal of property and equipment
Interest expense
Miscellaneous, net
Loss from operations before income taxes
Depreciation:
Depreciation [Abstract]
Total depreciation
Amortization of intangible assets:
Amortization [Abstract]
Total amortization of intangible assets
Additions to property and equipment:
Movement in Property, Plant and Equipment [Roll Forward]
Total additions to property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions
Right-of-use assets
Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset
Other current liabilities
Operating Lease, Liability, Current
Operating lease liabilities
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term
Weighted Average Discount Rate
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Axis]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain]
Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain]
Defined Benefit Pension Items
Defined Benefit Pension Items [Member]
Defined Benefit Pension Items [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other Category
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other Category [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other Category [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax
Amounts reclassified from AOCI, net of tax
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax
Net current-period other comprehensive income
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Ending balance
Actuarial gain (loss) tax amount
Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax
Other liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract]
Employee compensation and benefits
Employee Compensation and Benefits Non Current
Employee compensation and benefits non current.
Deferred FCC repack income
Deferred Credits and Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Programming liability
Program Rights Obligations, Noncurrent
Liability for pension benefits
Liability, Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Noncurrent
Other
Other Sundry Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other liabilities (less current portion)
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other liabilities
Schedule of Other Liabilities Noncurrent [Table Text Block]
Schedule of other liabilities noncurrent.
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital
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 receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Notes Receivable
Other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Current Assets
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Accrued employee compensation and benefits
Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities
Accrued interest
Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net
Other accrued liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities
Unearned revenue
Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Asset
Other, net
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net
Total
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net loss
Adjustments to reconcile net loss 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
(Gain)/loss on sale of property and equipment
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment
Programming assets and liabilities
Gain (Loss) On Program Assets And Liabilities
Gain (Loss) On Program Assets And Liabilities
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.
Stock and deferred compensation plans
Stock and Deferred Compensation Plans
Cash flows related to share based compensation and deferred compensation.
Pension expense, net of contributions
Pension Expense, Net of Payments
Pension expense, net of payments
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net
Miscellaneous, net
Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement
Net cash provided by (used in) 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, net of cash acquired
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Acquisition of intangible assets
Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets
Additions to property and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Purchase of investments
Payments to Acquire Investments
Proceeds from FCC repack
Proceeds From Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Repack
Proceeds From Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Repack
Miscellaneous, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Net borrowings under revolving credit facility
Proceeds from (Repayments of) Lines of Credit
Payments on long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Dividends paid
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Repurchase of Class A Common shares
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Miscellaneous, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect of foreign exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract]
Beginning of year
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
End of period
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest paid
Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities
Income taxes paid
Income Taxes Paid
Non-cash investing information
Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract]
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Contributions to benefit plan
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer
Estimated future contributions
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Remainder of Fiscal Year
Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Table]
Schedule of assets lacking physical substance, excluding goodwill
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 [Member]
Other
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
Indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)
Total other intangible assets
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, tax amount
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax
Leases
Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Adjustment for changes in accounting standard
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Period Increase (Decrease)
Increase in allowance for doubtful accounts
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Adoption, Quantification
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Information Related to Operating Leases
Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block]
Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Lease Cost Information
Lease, Cost [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Minimum Lease Payments Under Non-Cancellable Operating Leases
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $286 and $155
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax
Other
Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax
Total comprehensive loss
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Television network affiliation relationships
Advertiser relationships
Shared Service Agreements
Service Agreements [Member]
Developed Technology Rights
Developed Technology Rights [Member]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
Nexstar Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Nexstar Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Cordillera Communications, LLC
Cordillera Communications, LLC [Member]
Cordillera Communications, LLC [Member]
Cordillera Communications, LLC and Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
Cordillera Communications, LLC And Nexstar Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Cordillera Communications, LLC And Nexstar Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Raycom Media, Inc.
Raycom Media, Inc. [Member]
Raycom Media, Inc. [Member]
Raycom Media, Inc., Cordillera Communications, LLC And Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
Raycom Media, Inc., Cordillera Communications, LLC And Nexstar Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Raycom Media, Inc., Cordillera Communications, LLC And Nexstar Media Group, Inc. [Member]
Omny Studio
Omny Studio [Member]
Omny Studio [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of businesses acquired
Number of Businesses Acquired
Business acquisition, purchase price
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Net working capital adjustment used in combination
Business Combination, Net Working Capital Adjustment
Business Combination, Net Working Capital Adjustment
Accounts receivable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables
Programming
Licensed Programming, Current
Licensed Programming, Current
Other current assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other
Property and equipment
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Right-of-use assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Operating Lease, Right-Of-Use Asset
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Operating Lease, Right-Of-Use Asset
Programming (less current portion)
Licensed Programming, Noncurrent
Licensed Programming, Noncurrent
Goodwill
Indefinite-lived intangible assets - FCC licenses
Other intangible assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles
Accounts payable
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable
Accrued expenses
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accrued Expenses
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accrued Expenses
Current programming liability
Program Rights Obligations, Current
Other current liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other
Operating lease liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed, Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent
Programming liability
Net purchase price
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Forecast
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
State and Local Jurisdiction
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds
Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds
Effective income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Share-based Compensation Cost, Amount
Excess tax benefits on share-based compensation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Amount
Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Discreet Tax Provision Charge
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Changes And Reductions, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Changes And Reductions, Amount
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts
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
Asset Write-Downs and Other Charges and Credits
Restructuring, Impairment, and Other Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Components of basic and diluted weighted-average shares
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Amended and restated revolving credit facility
Letter of Credit
Letter of Credit [Member]
Senior Notes
Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain]
Redemption Period One
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member]
Redemption Period Two
Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
LIBOR
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Debt face value
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt stated rate
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Issuance price of debt
Debt Instrument, Issuance Price, Percentage
Debt Instrument, Issuance Price, Percentage
Redemption as a percent of principal
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed
Debt redemption price
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage
Debt issuance costs
Interest rate reduction
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Increase (Decrease)
LIBOR plus margin range
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Net leverage ratio requirement
Ratio of Indebtedness to Net Capital
Annual principal payments
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal
Variable interest rate
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate
Weighted average interest rate
Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time
Revolving credit and term loan agreement
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Percentage of commitment fees of total unused commitment under revolving credit facility
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage
Letters of credit outstanding
Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding
Transaction related costs
Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs
Operating revenues
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Net loss
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax
Net loss per share - basic
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Net loss per share - diluted
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Accounts receivable (less allowances— $3,961 and $3,546)
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
FCC repack receivable
Receivables, Repack Receivable, Federal Communications Commission, Current
Receivables, Repack Receivable, Federal Communications Commission, Current
Miscellaneous
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Investments
Long-term Investments
Property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Other intangible assets
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net
Miscellaneous
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total Assets
Assets
Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Unearned revenue
Current portion of long-term debt
Accrued liabilities:
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Employee compensation and benefits
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Programming liability
Accrued interest
Interest Payable, Current
Miscellaneous
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Other current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt (less current portion)
Deferred income taxes
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net
Other liabilities (less current portion)
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; 69,456,797 and 69,027,524 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,722 shares
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Accumulated deficit
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes
Total equity
Total Liabilities and Equity
Liabilities and Equity
Acquisitions
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Segment Information
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]