Acquisitions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.	$ (21,200)	$ (14,496)	$ (54,542)	$ (60,891)
Transfers to the noncontrolling interest:
Increase in MDC Partners Inc. paid-in capital for purchase of equity interests in excess of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	0	5,263	0	2,023
Increase in MDC Partners Inc. paid-in capital from issuance of equity interest	1,531	0	11,347	0
Net transfers to noncontrolling interest	1,531	5,263	11,347	2,023
Change from net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc. and transfers to noncontrolling interest	$ (19,669)	$ (9,233)	$ (43,195)	$ (58,868)