Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reportable Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule Of Related Party Transactions Revenues and Expenses Text Block Schedule Of Related Party Transactions, Revenues Text Block Schedule Of Related Party Transactions, Revenues (Text Block) Schedules Of Related Party Transactions Receivables Text Block [Table Text Block] Schedules Of Related Party Transactions Receivables Text Block [Table Text Block] Schedules Of Related Party Transactions Receivables [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock Options and RSU [Member] Stock Options and RSU [Member] [Member] Incremental common shares attributable to stock options and RSUs that were not included in diluted earnings per share (EPS) because to do so would increase EPS amounts or decrease loss per share amounts for the period presented. A contract that gives the holder the right, but not the obligation, either to purchase or to sell a certain number of shares of stock at a predetermined price for a specified period of time. PRSUs [Member] Prsus [Member] PRSUs Member Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Contingently issuable preferred shares Preferred Shares Excluded From Diluted Earnings Per Share Preferred shares held in escrow as part of an agreement that entitles an entity to additional shares A or Series C convertible preferred stock in the event the Company issues common stock to settle the exercise of stock options and stock appreciation rights that the Company assumed in connection with the formation of the Company. These shares are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share. Content Rights [Abstract] CONTENT RIGHTS [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Produced content rights: Produced Content Rights [Abstract] Relating to content rights that were produced solely by the registrant. Completed Produced Content Rights Completed Gross capitalized amount of completed produced content asset before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date In-production Produced Content Rights In Production Gross capitalized amount of in process produced content asset as of the balance sheet date Coproduced content rights: Co-produced Content Rights [Abstract] Relates to content rights that are co-produced. Completed Co-Produced content rights Completed Gross capitalized amount of completed co-produced content asset before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date. In-production Co Produced Content Rights In Production Gross capitalized amount of in process co-produced content asset as of the balance sheet date Licensed content rights: Licensed Content Rights [Abstract] Relating to licensed content rights. Acquired Licensed Content Rights Acquired Gross capitalized amount of acquired content asset before accumulated amortization as of the balance sheet date Prepaid Licensed Content Rights Prepaid Gross capitalized amount of prepaid content asset as of the balance sheet date Content rights, at cost Finite-Lived Media Content, Gross Accumulated amortization Accumulated Depreciation The accumulated amount of amortization expense from content assets (other than in process productions and prepaid) as of the balance sheet date. Total content rights, net Content Rights Net The aggregate sum of gross carrying value of capitalized content costs, less accumulated amortization. Current portion Content Library Net Current Portion Net carrying amount after accumulated amortization, impairment charges, and write-offs of licensed content rights that are capitalized at the end of the reporting period. The portion of the unamortized licensed content balance that will be amortized within one year is classified as a current asset. Noncurrent portion Content Library Net Non Current Net carrying amount after accumulated amortization, impairment charges and write-offs of deferred costs incurred in the direct production, co-production, or licensing of content rights that are capitalized at the end of the reporting period. The portion of the unamortized licensed content balance that will be amortized beyond one year is classified as a noncurrent asset. Additionally, all produced and co-produced content is classified as non-current assets. Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Foreign Currency [Member] Foreign Currency [Member] Foreign Currency [Member] Derivatives and Market Value Adjustments [Member] Net Change In Derivatives And Market Value Adjustments [Member] Net Change in Derivatives and Market Value Adjustments [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Beginning balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Current period other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending balance Total Adjusted OIBDA Total Adjusted OIBDA Total adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization. Amortization of deferred launch incentives Amortization Of Deferred Launch The current period amortization of deferred launch incentives, which is recorded as a reduction to distribution revenues. Deferred launch incentives represent upfront payments made to distributors to carry a new channel. Mark-to-market equity-based compensation Mark To Market Stock Based Compensation Represents the expense recognized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements qualifying for mark to market accounting (for example, cash-settled stock appreciation rights) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Restructuring charges Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges Gain on disposition Gains On Dispositions Excluding Discontinued Operations Pretax gain (loss), not previously recognized and resulting from the sale of a business component, which is recognized at the date of sale. A gain (loss) reflects the amount by which the consideration received exceeds (is exceeded by) the net carrying amount (reflecting previous provisions for loss on disposal, if any) of the disposal group. The item is not presented as discontinued operations because of the Company's continued involvement in the business. Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Put right obligations Put Right Obligations Put Right Obligations Carrying value of gaurantees to equity method investees Guarantor Obligations, Current Carrying Value Material amounts for indemnifications or other contingencies Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Series A Common Stock [Member] Common Class A [Member] Series C Common Stock [Member] Common Class C [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Shares repurchased Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Purchase price Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Content expense Content Expense Content expense Content Impairments Content Impairments Content Impairments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] U.S. Networks [Member] Us Networks [Member] US Networks [Member] International Networks [Member] International Networks [Member] International Networks [Member] Education [Member] Education [Member] Education [Member] Corporate And Inter-Segment Eliminations [Member] Corporate Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Corporate An Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] 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] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Unit Awards [Member] Unit Awards [Member] Unit Awards [Member] Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] PRSUs And RSUs [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Units And Restricted Stock Units [Member] SARs [Member] Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Total equity-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Tax benefit recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Disclosure Text Block Supplement [Abstract] Accrued payroll and related benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Content rights payable Content Rights Payable Content Rights Payable Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Accrued interest Deposit Liabilities, Accrued Interest Current portion of equity-based compensation liabilities Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current Accrued other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 3.30% Senior Notes [Member] Three Point Three Zero Percent Senior Notes [Member] Three Point Three Percent Senior Notes [Member] 4.95% Senior Notes [Member] Four Point Nine Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] Four Point Nine Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] 2012 Notes [Member] Three Point Three Zero And Four Point Nine Five Senior Notes [Member] Aggregate indebtedness [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term Debt, Gross Long-term Debt, Gross Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Long-term debt, maturity date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Months and Years Debt instrument maturity date, months and years. Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Revolving line of credit, maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Amounts drawn under revolving credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Outstanding as of December 31, 2011, Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted, Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised, Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited, Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Stock Options Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Exercisable as of September 30, 2012, Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Outstanding as of December 31, 2011, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercisable as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercised, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Exercisable as of September 30, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Schedule Of Accrued Expenses And Other Current Liabilities Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Other Expense, Net Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block] Treasury Stock [Policy Text Block] Describes the entity's accounting policy for recognizing and reporting costs associated with the company's stock repurchase program. Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Variable Interest Entity Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments Disclosure [Text Block] Currency translation adjustments, before tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Derivatives and market value adjustments, before tax amount Market Value Adjustments And Reclassifications For Securities And Derivatives Before Tax Pre tax change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative and other security instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of reclassifications into earnings during the period. A cash flow hedge is a hedge of the exposure to variability in the cash flows of a recognized asset or liability or a forecasted transaction that is attributable to a particular risk. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase or decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Other comprehensive income, before tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Currency translation adjustments, tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Derivatives and market value adjustments, tax expense Market Value Adjustment And Reclassification For Securities And Derivatives Tax Amount Total tax effect of the change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative and other security instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. The change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase or decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a credit balance consistent with its label. Other comprehensive income, tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Currency translation adjustments, Net-of-tax Amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Derivatives and market value adjustments, Net-of-tax Amount Other Comprehensive Income Securities And Derivatives Accumulated change, net of tax, in accumulated gains and losses from derivative and other security instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges. Includes an entity's share of an equity investee's Increase or Decrease in deferred hedging gains or losses. Other Comprehensive income, net-of-tax Amount Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Operations Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Operations [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Operations [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Comprehensive Income Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Cash Flows Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Condensed Consolidating Statement Of Cash Flows [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Reporting Segment [Domain] Revenues by segment Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment Total revenues Revenue, Net Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Use Of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounting And Reporting Pronouncements Adopted Schedule Of New Accounting Pronouncements And Changes In Accounting [Policy Text Block] Description of new accounting pronouncements and changes adopted by the Company. Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted [Text Block] Concentrations Risk Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Outstanding Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Acquisitions And Dispositions Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Equity-Based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] NET INCOME PER SHARE [Abstract] NET INCOME PER SHARE [Abstract] Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Discovery Stockholders [Member] Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Equity-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Issuance of common stock in connection with equity-based plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Repurchases of common stock Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Cash distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Ending balance Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Series A Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series C Convertible Preferred Stock [Member] Series C Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Common Stock [Member] Common Class B [Member] Stock, par value Temporary Equity, Par or Stated Value Per Share Stock, shares authorized Temporary Equity, Shares Authorized Stock, shares issued Temporary Equity, Shares Issued Stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Schedule Of Revenues By Segment Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Adjusted OIBDA By Segment Schedule Of Adjusted Oibda By Segment [Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the Company's measurement of operating performance by segment. Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Adjusted OIBDA To Operating Income Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Total Assets By Segment Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Equity Method Investees [Member] Equity Method Investees [Member] Equity Method Investees [Member] Liberty Global [Member] Liberty Global [Member] Liberty Global [Member] OtherRelatedParties [Member] OtherRelatedParties [Member] OtherRelatedParties [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Revenues and service charges Related Party Transaction, Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Interest income Interest Earnings From Loans To Joint Venture This item represents the interest earnings from loans to joint venture which is a component of Other Income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of operation. Expenses Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] OWN Joint Venture [Member] Own Joint Venture [Member] OWN Joint Venture Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Business Acquisitions, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Potential Cash Payment Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Potential Cash Payment Goodwill on Business Acquisitions Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Discontinued Operation, Loss on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Gain on disposition Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Discovery [Member] Discovery Communications Inc [Member] Discovery Communications, Inc. [Member] DCH [Member] Discovery Communications Holding Llc [Member] Discovery Communications Holding, LLC [Member] DCL [Member] Discovery Communications Llc [Member] Discovery Communications LLC [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Of DCL [Member] Non Guarantor Subsidiaries Of Discovery Communications Llc [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Of Discovery Communications, LLC [Member] Other Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries of Discovery [Member] Other Non Guarantor Subsidiaries Of Discovery Communications Inc [Member] Other Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Of Discovery Communications, Inc. [Member] Reclassifications And Eliminations [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Discovery and Subsidiaries [Member] Discovery Communications Inc And Subsidiaries [Member] Discovery And Subsidiaries [Member] Cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Purchases of property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Business acquisition, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Distribution from equity method investee Distribution From Equity Method Investees Distribution From Equity Method Investees Investments in and advances to equity method investees Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Other investing activities, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Borrowings from long term debt, net of discount and issuance costs Principal repayments of capital lease obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Repurchases of common stock Proceeds from issuance of common stock in connection with equity-based plans Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Excess tax benefits from equity-based compensation Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Inter-company contributions and other financing activities, net Intercompany Contributions And Other Financing Activities Net Change The cash inflow (outflow) between the parent companies, subsidiary issuers or subsidiary guarantors' the following subsidiaries: (a) non-guarantor subsidiaries; (b) subsidiary issuers or subsidiary guarantors that are not 100% owned or whose guarantee is not full and unconditional; (c) subsidiary guarantors whose guarantee is not joint and several with the guarantees of the other subsidiaries; and (d) subsidiary guarantors as a source of financing that is recorded as an investment (cash outflow) or equity (cash inflow). Cash (used in) provided by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net change in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Losses from equity investees, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other, net Other Nonoperating Income Expense Other Net The net amount of miscellaneous other non-operating income (expense). Total other expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Money Market Funds [Member] Money Market Funds [Member] US Treasury Securities [Member] US Treasury Securities [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Trading securities Trading Account Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value Disclosure Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Deferred compensation plan Deferred Compensation Cash-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Direct ownership percentage in Discovery Communications Holding, LLC Subsidiary Of Limited Liability Company Or Limited Partnership Ownership Interest Direct The number of units or percentage investment held in the subsidiary by the limited liability company or limited partnership, direct Indirect ownership percentage in Discovery Communications Holding, LLC Subsidiary Of Limited Liability Company Or Limited Partnership Ownership Interest Indirect The number of units or percentage investment held in the subsidiary by the limited liability company or limited partnership, indirect Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 3.70% Senior Notes [Member] Three Point Seven Zero Percent Senior Notes [Member] 3.70% Senior Notes [Member] 5.625% Senior Notes [Member] Five Point Six Two Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] 5.625% Senior Notes [Member] 5.05% Senior Notes [Member] Five Point Zero Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] 5.05% Senior Notes Member 4.375% Senior Notes [Member] Four Point Three Seven Five Percentage Senior Notes [Member] Four Point Three Seven Five Percentage Senior Notes [Member] 6.35% Senior Notes [Member] Six Point Three Five Percent Senior Notes [Member] 6.35% Senior Notes Member Long-term debt, frequency of periodic payments Debt Instrument, Frequency of Periodic Payment Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Currency translation adjustments Derivatives and market value adjustments Unrealized (losses) gains on securities and derivatives instruments, net For securities, amounts represent the appreciation or loss in value (before reclassification adjustment) of the total of unsold securities during the period being reported on, net of tax. Reclassification adjustments include: (1) the unrealized holding gain or loss, net of tax, at the date of the transfer for a debt security from the held-to-maturity category transferred into the available-for-sale category. Also includes the unrealized gain or loss at the date of transfer for a debt security from the available-for-sale category transferred into the held-to-maturity category; (2) the unrealized gains or losses realized upon the sale of securities, after tax; and (3) the unrealized gains or losses realized upon the write-down of securities, after tax. For derivatives, amounts represent the change in accumulated gains and losses from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax effect. The after tax effect change includes an entity's share of an equity investee's increase (decrease) in deferred hedging gains or losses. Account includes the portion that is applicable to noncontrolling interests. Comprehensive income Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Receivables Due from Related Parties, Current Note receivable (see Note 3) Variable Interest Entity, Funded Notes Receivable Note receivable (not including accrued interest) related to funding of a variable interest entity. Total assets Assets Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Equity-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Content amortization and impairment expense Content Amortization And Writeoffs Noncash amortization and noncash charges for the impairment or write-off of costs for content rights (direct production, co-production, and licensed) that were previously capitalized. Loss (gain) on disposition Equity in losses and distributions from investee companies Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Deferred income tax (benefit) expense Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Other, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Receivables, net Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Content rights Increase Decrease In Content Rights This item represents capitalized amount added to or retired from the balance sheet for the acquisitions, direct production, co-production or licensing of content rights. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Equity-based compensation liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Compensation Income tax receivable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Receivable Other, net Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Cash provided by operating activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Investments in and advances to equity method investees Cash provided by (used in) investing activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repurchases of common stock Other financing activities, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Cash (used in) provided by financing activities Net change in cash and cash equivalents Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for taxes, net Income Taxes Paid, Net Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Noncash Investing and Financing Transactions Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Investment in OWN Noncash contribution to equity investee The total fair value of assets contributed to an equity method investee, which has been recorded as an increase in the equity investment balance. Assets acquired under capital lease arrangements Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Acquisitions Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired [Abstract] Fair value of assets Fair Value of Assets Acquired Fair value of liabilities Liabilities Assumed Cash paid, net of cash acquired U.S. federal statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate State and local income taxes, net of federal income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes Effect of foreign operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential Domestic production activity deductions Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Qualified Production Activities Reorganization of operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliations, Reorganization of Operations The portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to a tax benefit recognized from the restructuring of certain assets for tax purposes. Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Effective income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Outstanding as of December 31, 2011 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted, PRSUs and RSUs Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Converted, PRSUs and RSUs Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Converted in Period Forfeited PRSUs and RSUs Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Outstanding as of September 30, 2012 Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, PRSUs and RSUs Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Total Units Vested And Expected To Vest The number of equity -based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that have vested and are expected to vest as of the balance sheet date. Outstanding as of December 31, 2011, Weighted-Average Grant Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Converted, Weighted-Average Grant Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans which the grantee converted the award into shares, other instruments, or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement. Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Grant Price Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Grant Price Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested And Expected To Vest In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value As of the balance sheet date, the weighted-average fair value pertaining to an equity-based award plan other than a stock (or unit) option plan that are fully vested or expected to vest. Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) Converted, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Other Than Options Unvested Converted Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Other Than Options Unvested Converted Aggregate Intrinsic Value. Outstanding as of September 30,2012, Aggregate Fair Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Other Than Options Unvested Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value The aggregate fair value of outstanding awards on non-stock option plans (for example, phantom stock plan, stock appreciation rights plan, revenue or profit achievement stock award plan) for which the employer is contingently obligated to issue equity instruments or transfer assets to an employee who has not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to proceeds from the sale of the award or underlying shares. Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Aggregate Fair Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments other than Options Vested and Expected to Vest Outstanding Aggregate Fair Value The aggregate fair value of vested and expected to vest awards, excluding stock (or unit) options, with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Treasury Stock Series A [Member] Class of Treasury Stock Series A [Member] Shares of an entity that have been repurchased by the entity. This stock has no voting rights and receives no dividends. Note that treasury stock may be recorded at its total cost or separately as par (or stated) value and additional paid in capital. Classified within stockholders' equity if nonredeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Classified within temporary equity if redemption is outside the control of the issuer. Treasury Stock Series C [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Treasury Stock, Shares Treasury Stock, Shares Treasury Stock, Value Treasury Stock, Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Schedule of Treasury Stock by Class [Table Text Block] Tax Effects Related To Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net Of Taxes Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Schedule of Variable Interest Entities [Table] Forecast [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Guarantor Obligations by Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations by Nature [Axis] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain] Maximum Amount Potentially Due [Member] Maximum Amount Potentially Due [Member] Maximum Amount Potentially Due [Member] Maximum Exposure To Loss [Member] Maximum Exposure To Loss [Member] Maximum Exposure To Loss [Member] Hub [Member] Hub [Member] Hub [Member] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Variable Interest Entity [Line Items] Aggregate carrying value of investments in VIE's accounted for using the equity method Variable Interest Entity, Nonconsolidated, Carrying Amount, Assets Variable Interest Entity Equity (Losses) Earnings Variable Interest Entity Equity Losses Variable Interest Entity Equity Losses Variable interest, maximum exposure to loss Variable Interest Entity, Reporting Entity Involvement, Maximum Loss Exposure, Amount VIE Funding Obligation, Carrying Value VIE Funding Obligation, Carrying Value Amount recorded for funding obligations to a variable interest entity, includes future amounts. Specified funding commitment, obligation Variable Interest Entity, Financial or Other Support, Amount Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure to loss Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Carrying values of investment Investments in Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures, Fair Value Disclosure Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Equity Method Investment, Other than Temporary Impairment Goodwill book basis Goodwill Other identifiable assets Other Identifiable Assets Book Basis Relates to the carrying value of other identifiable assets of the Discovery Health Network contributed to the OWN joint venture upon launch. Investment in OWN Non Cash Contribution To Equity Investee The total fair value of assets contributed to an equity method investee, which has been recorded as an increase in the equity investment balance. Tax on gain Tax On Gain The tax expense related to the gain on assets contributed to the OWN joint venture. Minimum put amount for purchase of Harpo's joint venture interest in OWN, first put exercise date Put Arrangement Minimum The minimum value of the first portion of a financial contract, where the partner has the right but not the obligation to effect the purchase of the underlying asset at that strike price, if the buyer exercises the option. The value is fixed; the portion of ownership acquired may change based in changes in fair value of the joint venture. Maximum put amount for purchase of Harpo's joint venture interest in OWN, fourth put exercise date Put Arrangement Maximum The maximum aggregate value of all portions of a financial contract between the entity, its partner, and the joint venture, where the partner has the right but not the obligation to sell a portion of its ownership interest to effect the purchase of the underlying asset at that value, if the buyer exercises the option. The value is fixed; the portion of ownership acquired may change based on changes in fair value of the joint venture. Proportion of OWN's net loss allocated to Discovery Communications Inc Joint Venture Loss Allocation Percentage Percentage of losses absorbed by the Company prior to the contribution of the VIE, as well as the percentage absorbed in the event the equity balance in the joint venture is depleted. OWN losses recognized at 100% Future allocated net income amount from joint venture Amount of previous net losses absorbed at 100% by the Company prior to the contribution of assets. Allocation of future net income generated by joint venture Allocation of future net income generated by joint venture Percentage of the joint venture future net income that will be absorbed by the Company until all prior net losses absorbed at 100% are recovered. Debt instrument interest rate Variable Interest Entity, Funded Notes Receivable Variable Interest Entity Funding Variable Interest Entity Cash Funding Portion of note receivable related to cash funding provided to the variable interest entity. Variable Interest Entity, Liabilities Assumed Variable Interest Entity, Liabilities Assumed The component of funding to a variable interest entity related to liabilities assumed on their behalf. Variable interest entity, funded debt Variable Interest Entity, Funded Debt Percentage of losses absorbed by the Company prior to the contribution of the VIE, as well as the percentage absorbed in the event the equity balance is the joint venture is depleted. Variable interest entity, interest accrued Variable Interest Entity Funded Interest Accrued Accrued interest on note receivable related to funding of a variable interest entity. Commitment Commitments, Fair Value Disclosure Proportionate ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Borrowings schedule repayment period, in years Borrowings Scheduled Repayment, Period Number of years before investee is required to repay borrowings. Harpo's right to require company to purchase Harpo's interest in OWN period, in years Terms Of Put Arrangement Put exercise period Put Right Obligations Income from continuing operations, net of taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Loss from discontinued operations, available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net income available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Weighted average shares outstanding - basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted average dilutive effect of equity awards Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Income per share from continuing operations available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders: Earnings Per Share From Continuing Operations Abstract Earnings per share from continuing operations [Abstract] Basic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Diluted Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Loss per share from discontinued operations available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders: Earnings Per Share From Discontinued Operations Abstract Earnings Per Share From Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Basic Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Diluted Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income per share available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders: Income (Loss) from Operations before Extraordinary Items, Per Basic Share [Abstract] Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted Granted, Unit Awards Settled, Unit Awards Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited, Unit Awards Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Unit Awards Settled, Weighted-Average Grant Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Grant Price Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, as of Specified Date The weighted average period between a specified date and expiration for equity-based awards other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan), which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years. Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested And Expected To Vest Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term The weighted-average period between the balance-sheet date and expiration date for vested and expected to vest equity awards, other than options, which may be expressed in a decimal value for number of years. Settled, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Settled in Period, Intrinsic Value The intrinsic value of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock or unit options, settled during the reporting period as calculated by applying the disclosed option pricing methodology. Outstanding as of September 30, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested In Period Intrinsic Value 1 The intrinsic value of equity-based payment equity instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, outstanding under the plan as of the balance sheet date. Vested and expected to vest as of September 30, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Reconciliation Of Income And Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Equity-Based Compensation Expense Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation - Summary Of Activities Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Provisions for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective income tax rate Federal statutory income tax rate Supplemental Disclosures Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Receivables, net Receivables, Net, Current Content rights, net Content Library Net Current Net carrying amount after accumulated amortization, impairment charges, and write-offs of licensed content rights that are capitalized at the end of the reporting period. The portion of the unamortized licensed content balance that will be amortized within one year is classified as a current asset. Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Noncurrent content rights, net Content Library Net Noncurrent Net carrying amount after accumulated amortization, impairment charges and write-offs of deferred costs incurred in the direct production, co-production, or licensing of content rights that are capitalized at the end of the reporting period. The portion of the unamortized licensed content balance that will be amortized beyond one year is classified as a noncurrent asset. Additionally, all produced and co-produced content is classified as long-term. Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Equity method investments Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Accrued Expenses And Other Current Liabilities Accrued expenses and other current liabilities. Deferred revenues Deferred Revenue Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 13) Commitments and Contingencies Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Convertible preferred stock Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Convertible common stock Temporary Equity, Value, Excluding Additional Paid in Capital Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Treasury stock, at cost Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Total Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Capital lease obligations Capital Lease And Other Obligations The carrying value of capital lease and other obligations of the entity. Long-term Debt, Gross Unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Long-term debt, net Long-term Debt Current portion of long-term debt Noncurrent portion of long-term debt Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Adjusted OIBDA, Policy [Policy Text Block] Adjusted OIBDA [Policy Text Block] Accounting policy on the calculation of adjusted operating income before depreciation and amortization ("AOIBDA"). Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Description Of Business And Basis Of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments, Contingencies, And Guarantees Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Revenues Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization Cost of Revenue Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Gain on disposition Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating (loss) income Equity in earnings of subsidiaries Equity in earnings of subsidiaries This item represents the parent companies', subsidiary issuers' or subsidiary guarantors' proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of the following subsidiaries: (a) non-guarantor subsidiaries; (b) subsidiary issuers or subsidiary guarantors that are not 100% owned or whose guarantee is not full and unconditional; (c) subsidiary guarantors whose guarantee is not joint and several with the guarantees of the other subsidiaries; and (d) subsidiary guarantors, to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the subsidiary. Interest expense Interest Expense, Debt Other income (expense), net Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Benefit from (provision for) income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Receivables, net Intercompany trade receivables, net Intercompany Trade Receivables, Net Intercompany trade receivables, net Total current assets Investment in and advances to consolidated subsidiaries Investments In And Advances To Consolidated Subsidiaries Carrying amount, as of balance sheet date, of investments in and advances to subsidiaries which are eliminated in consolidation. Total assets Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Intercompany Trade Payables, Net Intercompany Trade Payables, Net Intercompany trade payables, net Total current liabilities Total liabilities Equity attributable to Discovery Communications, Inc. Equity and Intersegment Advances The aggregate of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items which are attributable to the parent and advances to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity and advances attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity Total equity Total liabilities and equity Board Of Directors Chairman [Member] Board of Directors Chairman [Member] Related party transactions, funded revenue Related party transactions, funded revenue Portion of revenues and other service charges earned from related parties, which the Company provided funding for. Aggregate equity voting power percentage Aggregate Voting Power Percentage Of A Related Party Aggregate voting power percentage of one of the Company's Board of Directors related to one of the Company's related parties. Schedule Of Content Rights Schedule Of Content Rights Text Block Schedule of the major components of deferred costs for content rights that are capitalized at the end of the reporting period and total accumulated amortization Content Rights Content Rights [Text Block] Disclosure of costs incurred in the direct production, co-production, or licensing of content rights. This includes the major components of deferred costs that are capitalized at the end of the reporting period, the portion of deferred costs amortized to expense during the reporting periods, and significant impairment charges or write-offs recorded during the reporting periods. Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Distribution Distribution Revenue Revenues earned during the period from providing programming and related services to cable television operators, direct-to-home satellite operators and other distributors, net of any incentives or other considerations. Advertising Advertising Revenue Other Other Revenue, Net Total revenues Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Costs of revenues, excluding depreciation and amortization Restructuring charges Gain on disposition Total costs and expenses Other expense, net Income from continuing operations before income taxes Provision for income taxes Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders Net income per share available to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders: Weighted average shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Basic Diluted PRSUs [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Outstanding as of September 30, 2012 Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total liability for cash-settled awards Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Weighted average fair value of units awards outstanding Weighted Average Fair Value Of Dap Units Outstanding The weighted average fair value for outstanding equity-based awards issued on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Cash payments made to settle vested Unit and SAR awards Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Flow Effect, Cash Used to Settle Awards Cash payments resulting from stock option exercises Weighted average grant date fair value of stock options granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted Average Fair Value Of SAR Outstanding Weighted Average Fair Value Of SAR Outstanding Weighted-average fair value Of SARs outstanding. Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted average period of time, in years, compensation expense related to units is expected to be recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Licensing arrangements for bulk content and other subscription services Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Number Of Reportable Segments Number Of Reportable Segments Number of segments reported by the entity. A reportable segment is a component of an entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] United States [Member] UNITED STATES Non United States [Member] Non United States [Member] Non united states [member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Number Of Cable And Satellite Operators Non United States Number Of Cable And Satellite Operators Non United States Specifies the number of foreign cable and satellite operators applied to concentration of risk from distribution revenues. Concentration Risk, number of customers Concentration Risk, number of customers Description of risks that arise due to the volume of business transacted with a particular customer. Number Of Cable And Satellite Operators United States Number Of Cable And Satellite Operators United States Specifies the number of United States cable and satellite operators applied to concentration of risk from distribution revenues. Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive income, net of tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Comprehensive income Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive income attributable to Discovery Communications, Inc. stockholders