Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 58,518	$ (21,763)	$ 24,666	$ (28,943)
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $317, $218, $891, $528	1,002	648	2,803	1,569
Other	6	0	18	0
Total comprehensive income (loss)	59,526	(21,115)	27,487	(27,374)
Less comprehensive net income attributable to noncontrolling interest	0	166	0	166
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$ 59,526	$ (21,281)	$ 27,487	$ (27,540)