Acquisitions (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.	$ 1,173	$ 29,560	$ (22,120)	$ (2,531)
Transfers to (from) the noncontrolling interest:
Net transfers to (from) noncontrolling interests	(19,174)	(30,282)	(19,174)	(33,199)
Change from net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc. and transfers to noncontrolling interests	(18,001)	(722)	(41,294)	(35,730)
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.			0
Parent [Member]
Net loss attributable to MDC Partners Inc.			(22,120)
Increase Decrease in Redeemable and Non Redeemable Non Controlling Interest from Step up Transactions	$ (19,174)	$ (30,282)	$ (19,174)	$ (33,199)