CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME UNAUDITED (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 29,323	$ 27,912	$ 57,299	$ 50,592
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation	22	1	30	(48)
Net unrealized gains on securities available for sale, net of tax	(1,728)	(6,900)	(4,425)	(860)
Other comprehensive income	(1,706)	(6,899)	(4,395)	(908)
Comprehensive income	27,617	21,013	52,904	49,684
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(373)	(19)	(395)	(154)
Comprehensive income attributable to GAMCO Investors, Inc.	$ 27,244	$ 20,994	$ 52,509	$ 49,530