Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ (18,378)	$ 19,749	$ (14,617)
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $(1,156), $2,557, and $4,152	(3,369)	7,590	10,150
Other, net of tax of $(77), $(22) and $(136)	(223)	(65)	(355)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(21,970)	27,274	(4,822)
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	(632)	(1,511)
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$ (21,970)	$ 27,906	$ (3,311)