Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (366)	$ 5,720	$ (7,180)	$ (21,361)
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $155, $249, $310, and $497	461	740	921	1,480
Total comprehensive income (loss)	95	6,460	(6,259)	(19,881)
Less comprehensive net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	0	0	632
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$ 95	$ 6,460	$ (6,259)	$ (19,249)