Quarterly Results of Operations (unaudited) (Details 1) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								6 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Summary of revised total comprehensive income
Net earnings (loss)	$ 34,991,000	$ 24,614,000	$ 25,833,000	$ 14,292,000	$ 30,472,000	$ 13,713,000	$ 18,087,000	$ (4,314,000)	$ 13,773,000	$ 27,486,000	$ 99,730,000	$ 57,958,000	$ 86,906,000
Amortization of net actuarial loss, net of tax								442,000	884,000	1,325,000	2,521,000	1,771,000	2,969
Pension funded status adjustment, net of tax											(9,544,000)	(31,611,000)	(6,107,000)
Split of Pension Plan with A. H. Belo, net of tax								85,222,000	85,222,000	85,222,000		85,222,000
Comprehensive income attributable to Belo Corp.								$ 81,350,000	$ 99,879,000	$ 114,033,000	$ 93,147,000	$ 113,340,000	$ 83,768,000