Acquisitions (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to MDC Partners Inc.	$ (4,922)	$ (21,200)	$ 2,702	$ (54,542)
Transfers to (from) the noncontrolling Interest:
Increase (decrease) in MDC Partners Inc. paid in capital for purchase of equity interests in excess of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests and Noncontrolling Interests	109	1,531	(6,129)	11,347
Net transfers to (from) noncontrolling interest	109	1,531	(6,129)	11,347
Change from net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc. and transfers to non controlling interest	$ (4,813)	$ (19,669)	$ (3,427)	$ (43,195)