Summary of the Change in Net Goodwill (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 25, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	$ 9,942,266
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	(7,077,381)
Beginning Balance	2,864,885
Acquisitions and adjustments	3,867
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	6,899
Total	10,766
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	9,993,339
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	(7,117,688)
Ending Balance	2,875,651
Publishing
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	7,643,255
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	(7,050,778)
Beginning Balance	592,477
Acquisitions and adjustments	3,855
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	3,399
Total	7,254
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	7,690,816
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	(7,091,085)
Ending Balance	599,731
Digital
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	680,489
Accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	(26,603)
Beginning Balance	653,886
Acquisitions and adjustments	12
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	3,423
Total	3,435
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	683,924
Accumulated impairment losses ending balance	(26,603)
Ending Balance	657,321
Broadcasting
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses beginning balance	1,618,522
Beginning Balance	1,618,522
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	77
Total	77
Goodwill before accumulated impairment losses ending balance	1,618,599
Ending Balance	$ 1,618,599