Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (21,763)	$ 19,131	$ (28,943)	$ (2,230)
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $218, $777, $528, and $1,274	648	2,316	1,569	3,796
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(21,115)	21,447	(27,374)	1,566
Less comprehensive net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest	(166)	0	(166)	632
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$ (21,281)	$ 21,447	$ (27,540)	$ 2,198