Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 19,749	$ (14,617)	$ 67,235
Changes in fair value of derivative, net of tax of $0, $0 and $142	0	0	242
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $2,557, $4,152, and $(2,455)	7,590	10,150	(3,936)
Other, net of tax of $(22), $(136) and $102	(65)	(355)	149
Total comprehensive income (loss)	27,274	(4,822)	63,690
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	(632)	(1,511)	0
Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$ 27,906	$ (3,311)	$ 63,690