Note 1 - Basis of Presentation (Details) - Carrying Amounts and Classification of Assets and Liabilities of VIE (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Assets:
Cash	$ 27,044	$ 13,478	$ 20,990	$ 11,067
Accounts receivable	69,429	70,047
Current portion of program broadcast rights, net	5,290	7,656
Prepaid and other current assets	11,268	5,293
Total current assets	147,144	130,587
Property and equipment, net	139,585	143,621
Deferred loan costs, net	16,706	17,293
Broadcast licenses	838,983	838,982
Liabilities:
Accounts payable	3,247	2,256
Employee compensation and benefits	11,745	16,759
Accrued interest	25,336	12,703
Current portion of program broadcast obligations	3,320	2,467
Current portion of long-term debt	203	224
Total current liabilities	70,397	63,085
Long-term debt, less current portion	842,360	842,650
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member]
Assets:
Cash	473	473
Accounts receivable	470	524
Current portion of program broadcast rights, net	27	42
Prepaid and other current assets	23	7
Total current assets	993	1,046
Property and equipment, net	835	883
Deferred loan costs, net	235	174
Broadcast licenses	4,161	4,161
Other intangible assets, net	517	575
Total assets	6,741	6,839
Liabilities:
Accounts payable	19	14
Employee compensation and benefits	33	8
Accrued interest		2
Other accrued expenses	17	13
Accrued expenses due to Gray	1,075	651
Current portion of program broadcast obligations	26	45
Current portion of long-term debt	200	200
Total current liabilities	1,370	933
Long-term debt, less current portion	2,750	2,800
Other long-term liabilities	2,621	3,106
Total liabilities	$ 6,741	$ 6,839