Crown Media 10-K 19 Feb 16 2015 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 16, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	CROWN MEDIA HOLDINGS INC
Entity Central Index Key	1,103,837
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2015
Amendment Flag	false
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Public Float			$ 156,801,512
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		359,675,936
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 50,604	$ 60,888
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $265 and $251, respectively	155,813	118,277
Programming rights	108,000	85,950
Prepaid programming rights		10,419
Prepaid and other assets	4,109	3,459
Total current assets	318,526	278,993
Long-term receivable	293
Programming rights	272,016	221,664
Prepaid programming rights	23,947	29,363
Property and equipment, net	8,588	10,763
Deferred tax assets, net	146,180	194,368
Debt issuance costs, net	805	227
Prepaid and other assets	3,749	5,051
Goodwill	314,033	314,033
Total assets	1,088,137	1,054,462
LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	30,920	29,588
Audience deficiency reserve liability	10,928	5,926
Programming rights payable	73,654	66,726
Payables to Hallmark Cards affiliates	353	150
Interest payable	1,266	13,079
Current maturities of long-term debt	12,188	20,000
Total current liabilities	129,309	135,469
Accrued liabilities	19,399	17,629
Programming rights payable	48,909	45,676
Derivative liability	735
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	310,222	362,050
Total liabilities	$ 508,574	$ 560,824
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Class A common stock, $.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 359,675,936 shares issued and outstanding as of both December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2015	$ 3,597	$ 3,597
Paid-in capital	2,062,818	2,062,818
Accumulated comprehensive loss	(158)
Accumulated deficit	(1,486,694)	(1,572,777)
Total stockholders' equity	579,563	493,638
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 1,088,137	$ 1,054,462

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful accounts (in dollars)	$ 251	$ 265
Class A common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Class A common stock, shares authorized	500,000,000	500,000,000
Class A common stock, shares issued	359,675,936	359,675,936
Class A common stock, shares outstanding	359,675,936	359,675,936

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Revenue:
Advertising	$ 382,716	$ 323,033	$ 291,710
Advertising by Hallmark Cards	3,528	4,658	3,095
Subscriber fees	85,324	82,903	81,818
Other revenue (including $0, $900 and $775 from Hallmark Cards for 2013, 2014 and 2015)	7,166	5,002	1,178
Total revenue, net	478,734	415,596	377,801
Programming costs
Non-affiliates	172,806	144,645	130,572
Hallmark Cards affiliate	3,385	3,951	3,429
Amortization of capital lease	1,158	1,158	1,158
Other costs of services	21,846	15,375	13,990
Total cost of services	199,195	165,129	149,149
Selling, general and administrative expense (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expense shown separately below)	76,165	68,570	63,438
Marketing expense	15,423	12,436	11,544
Depreciation and amortization expense	2,700	2,468	1,850
Gain from extinguishment			(121)
Income from continuing operations before interest and income tax expense	185,251	166,993	151,941
Interest income	363	303
Interest expense	(25,391)	(39,566)	(42,577)
Loss on extinguishment of debt	22,478	3,668
Income before income tax expense and discontinued operations	137,745	124,062	109,364
Income tax benefit (expense)	(51,662)	(28,936)	(41,649)
Income from continuing operations	86,083	95,126	67,715
Loss from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax		(629)
Net income	86,083	94,497	67,715
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax	(158)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 85,925	$ 94,497	$ 67,715
Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, basic and diluted	359,676	359,676	359,676
Income per share from operations, basic and diluted	$ 0.24	$ 0.26	$ 0.19
Net income per common share, basic and diluted	$ 0.24	$ 0.26	$ 0.19

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPE5

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Other revenue from Hallmark Cards	$ 775	$ 900	$ 0

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Class A Common Stock	Paid-in Capital	Other Comprehensive Loss	Accumulated Deficit	Total
Balances at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 3,597	$ 2,062,751		$ (1,734,989)	$ 331,359
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012	359,676,000
Increase (decrease) in stockholders equity
Additional paid-in capital from refund under tax sharing agreement		67			67
Net income	$ 0	0	$ 0	67,715	67,715
Balances at Dec. 31, 2013	$ 3,597	2,062,818		(1,667,274)	399,141
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013	359,676,000
Increase (decrease) in stockholders equity
Net income	$ 0	0	0	94,497	94,497
Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 3,597	2,062,818		(1,572,777)	$ 493,638
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014	359,676,000				359,675,936
Increase (decrease) in stockholders equity
Net income	$ 0	0	0	86,083	$ 86,083
Balances at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 3,597	$ 2,062,818	(158)	$ (1,486,694)	$ 579,563
Balances (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015	359,676,000				359,675,936
Increase (decrease) in stockholders equity
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax			$ (158)		$ (158)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$ 86,083	$ 94,497	$ 67,715
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Gain from extinguishment of indemnification			(121)
Loss from sale of discontinued operations		629
Loss from early extinguishment of debt	22,478	3,668
Depreciation and amortization expense	183,030	155,288	139,879
Provision for allowance for doubtful accounts	483	187	875
Gain on sale of property and equipment	(5)	(10)	(12)
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense	48,829	26,081	39,562
Non-cash compensation		36	242
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase in accounts receivable	(38,312)	(13,851)	(13,426)
Additions to programming rights	(248,594)	(182,733)	(146,560)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid and other assets	14,287	(7,971)	(10,011)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities	10,431	11,338	(6,061)
Decrease in interest payable	(11,892)	(1,376)	(14)
Increase in derivative payable	485
(Decrease) increase in payables to Hallmark Cards affiliates	6	(1)	(2,156)
(Decrease) increase in programming rights payable	10,161	(16,472)	(12,334)
Net cash provided by operating activities	77,470	69,310	57,578
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment	(2,133)	(2,729)	(1,530)
Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment	18	10	19
Net cash used in investing activities	(2,115)	(2,719)	(1,511)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Principal payments on the 2011 Term Loan	(119,637)	(36,503)	(33,210)
Redemption of Notes	(271,503)	(28,497)
Premium on redemption of Notes	(14,254)	(3,140)
Principal payments on the 2015 Revolver	(25,000)
Issuance of the 2015 Term Loan	325,000
Issuance of the 2015 Revolver	25,000
Transaction costs incurred	(3,808)		(1,546)
Principal payments on capital lease obligations	(1,437)	(1,313)	(1,266)
Net cash used in financing activities	(85,639)	(69,453)	(36,022)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(10,284)	(2,862)	20,045
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	60,888	63,750	43,705
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	50,604	60,888	63,750
Supplemental disclosure of cash and non-cash activities:
Interest paid	34,837	38,464	40,414
Taxes Paid	3,388	2,977	2,761
Additional paid-in capital for tax transactions			(67)
Asset acquired through capital lease obligation		21
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable	$ 1,165	$ 968	$ 396

Business and Organization

Business and Organization	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Business and Organization.
Business and Organization	1. Business and Organization Crown Media Holdings, Inc. (“Crown Media Holdings” or the “Company”), through its wholly ‑owned subsidiary Crown Media United States, LLC (“Crown Media United States”) owns and operates pay television networks dedicated to high quality, entertainment programming for adults and families in the United States. Majority ownership of the Company is held by Hallmark Cards, Incorporated (“Hallmark Cards”) through its subsidiaries H C Crown, LLC (“HCC”) and Hallmark Cards GmbH. The Company’s continuing operations are currently organized into one operating segment, the Networks.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates	2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Crown Media Holdings and its wholly ‑owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the consideration of events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued. Depending on the nature of the subsequent event, financial statement recognition or disclosure of the subsequent event may be required. Use of Estimates The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenue and expenses. Such estimates include the collectibility of accounts receivable, the valuation of goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets, the net realizable value of programming rights, the fair value of film assets, legal contingencies, indemnifications, barter transactions, and assumptions used in the calculation of income taxes and related valuation allowance, among others. All of the estimates that are employed are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management adjusts such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes, if any, in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible into cash and are not subject to significant risk from fluctuations in interest rates. As a result, the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value. Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The allowance for doubtful accounts is based upon the Company’s assessment of probable loss related to uncollectible accounts receivable. The Company uses a number of factors in determining the allowance, including, among other things, the financial condition of specific customers and collection trends. Programming Rights Programming rights usually comprise feature films, series, shows, and other broadcastable productions that make up a broadcaster’s television schedules. Individual rights on which these programming assets are based are also referred to as film rights. Film rights comprise the rights associated with a film or program that a television broadcaster must hold in order to exploit it on the market. Such film rights are usually acquired in the form of a film or television licensing agreement, for example with license sellers, or in the form of production agreements with producers. Among other things, a licensing agreement stipulates the type and amount of the license fee, the broadcast area, broadcast time, number of broadcasts, and the form of exploitation. The Company’s programming rights principally consist of rights to off ‑network, theatrical and original movies; off ‑network and original scripted series; original unscripted series and specials. Original series and specials consist of lifestyle, dramatic and other entertainment programming. Programming aired on the Company’s Networks is primarily obtained from third ‑party production companies and distributors and is classified as acquired or original programming in the footnotes to these financial statements. Programming aired on the Company’s Networks obtained from subsidiaries of Hallmark Cards is classified as affiliate programming. See note 3 below for programming rights assets and payable related to Hallmark Cards affiliates. Acquired programming consists of series, films and specials that have been previously produced and have often been previously exhibited by third parties for which the Company licenses limited broadcast rights for a specific time period. The licensed exhibitions can vary from a single broadcast to multiple broadcasts over several years, and the license typically requires payments during the term of the license. The cost of acquired programming is capitalized when the license period begins and the program is available for use. Original programming consists of movies, series and specials that are specifically produced for the Company’s Networks. The Company often funds the production of original programs; this production funding is classified as prepaid programming rights until production is completed and the program is available for use. Capitalized programming costs are stated at the lower of cost less accumulated amortization or net realizable value (fair value for owned programming). Amortization of licensed programming rights is recognized over the contractual term on a straight ‑line basis or the estimated useful life, if shorter. Amortization of the capitalized costs of licensed programming commences when the license period begins and the program is available for use. The portion of the unamortized programming rights that will be amortized within one year is classified as current programming rights on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company periodically evaluates the net realizable value of its licensed programming rights by considering expected future revenue generation on a portfolio basis. Estimates of future revenue consider historical airing patterns and future plans for airing programming, including any changes in strategy. Estimated future revenue may differ from actual revenue based on changes in expectations related to market acceptance, advertising demand, the number of cable and satellite television subscribers receiving the Company’s Networks, program usage and actual performance of the Company’s programming. Accordingly, the Company continually reviews revenue estimates and planned usage and revises its assumptions if necessary. Given the significant estimates and judgments involved, actual demand or market conditions may be less favorable than those projected, requiring a write ‑down to net realizable value. Certain original programs are fully owned and produced by the Company. Therefore, these are classified as owned programming. Amortization of the capitalized costs of owned programming is amortized over the expected and likely broadcasts of the program. The Company’s unamortized owned programming of $2 5.0 million is classified as long ‑term programming rights on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (the “ASC”) Topic 926, Entertainment - Films . The Company amortizes its internally produced films using the individual-film-forecast-computation method. The individual-film-forecast-computation method amortizes such assets in the same ratio that current period actual revenue bears to estimated ultimate future revenues. On a quarterly basis, the Company assesses whether events or circumstances have changed indicating that the fair value of a film is lower than its unamortized cost or carrying value. If the carrying value of any individual film asset exceeds its fair value, the film asset is written-down to its estimated fair value. The Company reviews its estimates of ultimate future revenues and participation costs as of each reporting date to reflect currently available information. Estimated ultimate future revenues are based on sales plans and other factors, all of which require significant judgment and estimation by management. Differences between amortization expense determined using the new estimates and any amounts previously expensed during that current fiscal year are charged or credited to the consolidated statement of operations in the period in which the estimates are revised. Property and Equipment Property and equipment is stated at historical cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Equipment under capital leases is initially recorded at the present value of the respective minimum lease payments. Depreciation on equipment is calculated using the straight ‑line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Equipment held under capital leases and leasehold improvements are amortized straight ‑line over the shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life of the asset. When property and equipment is sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or amortization are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in the consolidated statement of operations. The costs of normal maintenance and repairs are charged to expense when incurred. Long ‑Lived Assets and Goodwill The Company reviews long ‑lived assets, other than goodwill, for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of the assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is evaluated by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset including its ultimate disposal. If the asset’s carrying value was estimated to be not recoverable from future cash flows, an impairment charge would be recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. The Company estimates fair values by using a combination of comparable market values and discounted cash flows, as appropriate. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually as of November 30 and whenever the occurrence of an event or a change in circumstances would suggest that the carrying value of goodwill might be in excess of its fair value. All of the Company’s goodwill relates to the Company’s Networks, which is also the Company’s only reporting unit. For its annual impairment assessment, the Company will first assess qualitatively whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. If the Company believes, as a result of its qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company performs a quantitative two ‑step goodwill impairment test that considers the fair value of the reporting unit relative to its carrying amount, and then records an impairment charge for the amount that the implied fair value of goodwill exceeds its carrying amount. The Company has the unconditional option to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test. At November 30, 2015, the date of the Company’s most recent assessment, the Company concluded it was not more likely than not that the fair value of the its sole reporting unit was less than the related carrying amount. Legal Costs and Contingencies In the normal course of business, the Company incurs costs to hire and retain external legal counsel to advise it on regulatory, litigation and other matters. The Company expenses these costs as the related services are received. If a loss is considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated, the Company recognizes an expense for the estimated loss. If the Company has the potential to recover a portion of the estimated loss from a third party, the Company makes a separate assessment of recoverability and reduces the estimated loss if recovery is also deemed probable. Leases The Company recognizes rent expense on a straight line basis over the lease term. Assets subject to capital leases are capitalized as property and equipment at the inception of the lease and depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or their estimated useful lives. The related liabilities are included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Barter Transactions The Company enters into transactions that involve the exchange of its on ‑air advertising spots, in part, for other products and services, such as programming rights. Programming rights and the related deferred advertising revenue that result from such transactions are recognized at the estimated fair value when the programming is available for telecast. Barter programming rights are amortized in the same manner as non ‑barter programming rights and advertising revenue is recognized when delivered. The Company recognized $2.4 million , $2.8 million and $2.6 million in barter advertising revenue during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. The Company recognized $2.2 million, $3. 0 million and $2.7 million in barter expense during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. Fair Value of Financial Instruments ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures , provides guidance which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and specifies disclosures about fair value measurements. The Company determines fair value as an exit price, representing the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The Company has balance sheet items (derivative liability and other comprehensive loss) measured at fair value on a recurring basis related to its interest rate swap. Significant balance sheet items which are subject to non-recurring fair value measurements consist of impairment valuations of goodwill, promotion and placement fees, property and equipment, and owned programming and barter advertising revenue and programming. Revenue Recognition Subscriber revenue from pay television distributors is recognized as revenue when an agreement is executed, programming is provided, the price is fixed and determinable, and collectibility is reasonably assured. Subscriber fees from pay television distributors are recorded net of amortization of promotion and placement costs. Advertising revenue, net of agency commissions, is recognized in the period in which related commercial spots or long form programming are aired. If the ratings guarantees associated with the programming in which the advertising appears are not achieved, recognition of a portion of the revenue from the advertising is deferred until the guarantees are satisfied by providing the advertisers with additional advertising time. Agency commissions are calculated based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing revenue for the Company’s broadcasting operations. Customers remit the gross billing amount to their respective agencies, after which each agency remits the amount collected less its commission to the Company. Payments received in advance of being earned are recorded as deferred revenue. Included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2015, is $2.9 million and $3.1 million, respectively, of deferred revenue. Further, $5.9 million and $6.0 million, respectively, are included in the long term portion of accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2015. Revenues from the licensing of television programming are recorded when the content is available for telecast by the licensee and when certain other conditions are met. Audience Deficiency Unit Liability Audience deficiency units (“ADUs”) are units of inventory (rights to utilize future advertising timeframes) that are made available to advertisers as fulfillment for past advertisements in programs that under ‑delivered on the guaranteed viewership ratings. The related liability results when impressions delivered on guaranteed ratings are less than the impressions guaranteed to advertisers. The liability is reduced and revenue is recognized when the Company airs the advertisement during another program to “make ‑good” on the under ‑delivery of impressions or the obligation expires contractually or by statute. Marketing Expense The Company expenses marketing expense as incurred. Transaction Costs The 2015 Term Loan transaction costs are being amortized using the effective interest method. The 2015 Revolver transaction costs are being amortized on a straight line basis over the term. Taxes on Income Income tax expense or benefit comprises (i) amounts estimated to be payable or receivable with respect to the Company’s income or loss for the period pursuant to the statutory provisions of the various federal, state and local jurisdictions in which the Company is subject to taxation and (ii) the changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the period. The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities, including related operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Net deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that management believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. In the event management subsequently determines that the Company would likely be able to realize deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be recorded with a corresponding reduction in the provision for income taxes. Management periodically evaluates the sustainability of tax positions taken. Whenever management estimates the probability of sustaining a tax position is at least more likely than not ( i.e. , greater than 50%), the tax position is deemed warranted and is recognized at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized as income tax expense. Foreign Currency Translation Foreign currency monetary items are stated in U.S. dollars, the Company’s functional currency, measured at exchange rates at the balance sheet date, with currency transaction gains and losses recorded in income. Transaction adjustment expense of $183,000 has been recorded for the year ended December 31, 2015. The Company did not have transaction adjustment expense during 2013 or 2014. Net Income per Share Basic net income per share for each period is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share for each period is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of shares of common stock plus potentially dilutive common shares outstanding except whenever any such effect would be antidilutive. Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments, which potentially subject Crown Media Holdings to a concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Generally, Crown Media Holdings does not require collateral to secure receivables. Crown Media Holdings has no significant off ‑balance sheet financial instruments with risk of accounting losses. Five , five and four of the Company’s distributors, with whom we have long term contracts, each accounted for more than 10% of subscriber revenue for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively, and together accounted for a total of 88% , 88% and 75% of subscriber revenue, respectively. Two of our distributors each accounted for approximately 15% or more of the Company’s subscribers for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, and together accounted for 46% , 45% and 42% of Hallmark Channel subscribers, respectively. The loss of one of these distributors could have a significant impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. F our and three of the Company’s programming content providers each accounted for more than 10% of total programming rights payable as of both December 31, 2014 and 2015, and together accounted for a total of 74% and 63% of the programming rights payable, respectively. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made in prior year’s consolidated balance sheet to conform to classifications used in the current year. Approximately $23.4 million of current prepaid programming rights were reclassified to non-current prepaid programming rights as of December 31, 2014 . Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU No. 2014-09”). This ASU supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605—Revenue Recognition and most industry specific guidance throughout the Codification. The standard requires that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The updated guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. Earlier adoption is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is in the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of accounting standards update ASU No. 2014-09 on its financial position and results of operations. In January 2015, the FASB issued new accounting rules that remove the concept of extraordinary items from GAAP. Under the existing guidance, an entity is required to separately disclose extraordinary items, net of tax, in the income statement after income from continuing operations if an event or transaction is of an unusual nature and occurs infrequently. This separate, net of tax presentation (and corresponding earnings per share impact) will no longer be allowed. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2016. The Company does not expect the adoption of the new accounting rules to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations. Adoption of Recent Accounting Principles The Company historically presented debt issuance costs as assets on its accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Interest — Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. This guidance requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability with fixed maturities be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. This guidance requires retrospective application. In conjunction with the 2015 Refinancing, the Company early adopted this guidance beginning the quarter ended June 30, 2015 and applied this guidance retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the Company’s accompanying consolidated balance sheets. This policy did not change the accounting for the issuance costs related to the 2011 Revolver and 2015 Revolver. The reclassification does not impact any prior amounts reported in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) or cash flows. The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of this change in accounting principle on the Company’s accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014 Prior to Adoption of ASU 2015-03 ASU 2015-03 Adjustment As Adopted (In thousands) Debt issuance costs, net $ $ $ Total assets Long term debt, net of current maturities Total liabilities Total liabilities and stockholders' equity In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes . This guidance requires that all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. This guidance may be applied either prospectively or retrospectively. The Company early adopted this guidance during the year ended December 31, 2015, and applied this guidance retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the Company’s accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Approximately $46.9 million of current net deferred tax assets were reclassified to non-current net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2014.

Programming Rights

Programming Rights	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Programming Rights
Programming Rights	3. Programming Rights Programming rights are comprised of the following: As of December 31, 2014 2015 (In thousands) Programming rights — non-affiliates Acquired programming Licensed for less than 12 years $ $ Original programming Licensed for less than 12 years Licensed for 12 years or longer Owned Programming rights— Hallmark Cards affiliates Licensed for less than 12 years Programming rights, at cost Accumulated amortization Programming rights available for broadcast Owned programming in development Programming rights, net $ $ Programming costs included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, were $ 134. 0 million, $ 148. 6 million and $ 176.2 million , respectively. In the regular course of evaluating the remaining usefulness of its various program rights, the Company may determine that certain rights may be of little future program value. In such instances, the Company shortens the estimated remaining life of the asset to zero , thereby accelerating amortization of the remaining net book value. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, such changes in estimates resulted in additional amortization of programming rights of $4.5 million, $7,000 and $15.0 million, respectively. This expense is included as a component of non ‑affiliate programming costs in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The Company expects to amortize $4.0 million to $5.0 million of the $25.0 million net book value at December 31, 2015 of owned programming during the year ended December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2014 and 2015, $39.8 million and $24.0 million, respectively, of programming rights were included in prepaid programming rights in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The various license periods associated with such amounts had not commenced as of the respective balance sheet dates. Programming rights payable are comprised of the following: As of December 31, 2014 2015 (In thousands) Programming rights payable — non-affiliates Acquired programming $ $ Original programming Programming rights payable — Hallmark Cards affiliates Total programming rights payable Less current maturities Long-term programming rights payable $ $

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property and Equipment
Property and Equipment	4. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are comprised of the following: As of December 31, Depreciable Life 2014 2015 (In years) (In thousands) Technical equipment and computers $ $ - Leased assets - Furniture, fixtures and equipment Leasehold improvements - Construction-in-progress Property and equipment, at cost Accumulated depreciation and amortization Property and equipment, net $ $ Depreciation and amortization expense related to property and equipment was $2.6 million, $2.8 million and $3.1 million, for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. Software and other intangible assets of $1.1 million as of both December 31, 2014 and 2015, have been included in prepaid and other assets in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Leases
Leases	5. Leases The Company leases uplink and transponder capacity and copiers under long ‑term lease agreements that are accounted for as capital leases. The capital lease liabilities are included as components of both accounts payable and accrued liabilities and non ‑current accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In addition, the Company leases uplink services and office facilities under operating leases that are generally non ‑cancelable. These leases expire at various dates through 2026, and some contain escalation clauses and renewal options. Future minimum lease payments under the agreements as of December 31, 2015, are as follows: Years Ending December 31, Capital Operating (in thousands) Leases(1) Leases(2) 2016 $ $ 2017 2018 2019 2020 — Thereafter — Total minimum lease payments $ Less amount representing interest (at implicit rates of 9.38% and 3.31%) Present value of net minimum lease payments Less current maturities Long-term obligation $ (1) The Company has three capital lease obligations. (2) Includes cancellable amounts related to parking spaces for the Studio City, California, office in the amounts of $130,000 for 2016 through 2019 , and $97,000 for 2020. Rent expense under the operating leases was $3.7 million, $4.4 million and $4.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. Amortization of the uplink and transponder asset held under a capital lease is recorded as amortization of capital lease in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The Company accrues and recognizes rent expense for operating leases on a straight line basis over the term of the lease, including free rent holiday periods, if any. Revenue associated with the Company’s sale of excess digital network capacity on a transponder is included in other revenue. Such amounts were $262,000 in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt
Revolving Credit Facilities, Term Loan, and the Notes	6. Debt 2015 Credit Facility On June 25, 2015, the Company entered into the 2015 Credit Agreement. The 2015 Credit Agreement provides for the 2015 Term Loan and the 2015 Revolver. The 2015 Credit Agreement also provides for the issuance of letters of credit and the provision of swingline loans under the 2015 Revolver, subject to a $15.0 million sublimit for letters of credit and a $5.0 million sublimit for swingline loans. The Company used $80.0 million of proceeds from the 2015 Term Loan to repay the 2011 Term Loan. On July 24, 2015, the Company funded the redemption of the Notes using the proceeds from the remaining $245.0 million under the 2015 Term Loan and $25.0 million under the 2015 Revolver, along with cash on hand. The 2015 Credit Agreement provides for the 2015 Term Loan, a five year $325.0 million senior secured term loan, the 2015 Revolver, a five year $100.0 million senior secured revolver, and the issuance of letters of credit and the provision of swingline loans under the 2015 Revolver, subject to a $15.0 million sublimit for letters of credit and a $5.0 million sublimit for swingline loans. The Company’s subsidiaries (the “Guarantors”) have guaranteed the Company’s obligations under the 2015 Credit Agreement. The 2015 Credit Agreement is collateralized by a first priority interest in substantially all of the present and future assets of the Company and the Guarantors, other than their interests in the Hallmark trademarks and associated rights. The Company must elect Eurodollar or base rate loans prior to borrowing. Although there is an election, the Company will always elect Eurodollar in order to keep the cash flow hedge effective. Eurodollar loans will bear interest at the adjusted three month LIBO rate (with that rate not to be deemed to be below 0.00%) , plus an interest margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.25% , depending on the Company’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio (as defined in the 2015 Credit Agreement). All base rate loans will bear interest at the alternate base rate (as defined in the 2015 Credit Agreement), plus an interest margin ranging from 0.50% to 1.25% , depending on the Company’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio. Commitment fees are payable on the unused credit commitment at a rate ranging from 0.25% to 0.40% , depending on the Company’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio. The Company is required to make prepayments under the 2015 Term Loan in amounts equal to (1) 50% of excess cash flow, as defined in the 2015 Credit Agreement, of the Company for the six months ending December 31, 2015, and for each year thereafter, which percentage will be reduced to 25% if the Consolidated Leverage Ratio is equal to or less than 3.00 to 1.00 but greater than 2.00 to 1.00, and 0% if the Consolidated Leverage Ratio is equal to or less than 2.00 to 1; (2) 100% of net cash proceeds of dispositions or casualty events if the Company has not invested such proceeds within one year after the occurrence of the disposition or casualty event; and (3) 100% of net cash proceeds from the issuance of indebtedness not otherwise permitted by the 2015 Credit Agreement. The Company’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio was less than 2:00 to 1 at December 31, 2015; therefore, no excess cash flow amounts were payable at that time. The covenants in the 2015 Credit Agreement limit the ability of the Company and certain of its subsidiaries to, among other things: (1) incur indebtedness; (2) create or permit liens on assets; (3) pay certain dividends or make certain distributions and other restricted payments; (4) make certain investments; (5) prepay certain indebtedness; (6) enter into certain transactions with its affiliates; (7) dispose of assets; (8) merge or consolidate; (9) enter into new unrelated lines of business; and (10) enter into sale and leaseback transactions. The 2015 Credit Agreement also requires compliance by the Company with a Consolidated Leverage Ratio test and a Consolidated Secured Leverage Ratio test (each as defined in the 2015 Credit Agreement). The Company was in compliance with its covenants under the 2015 Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2015. The 2015 Term Loan was not in place during the year ended December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, the outstanding balance under the 2015 Term Loan, net of unamortized transaction costs of $2.6 million, was $322.4 million. The Company made an interest payments of $1.9 million under the 2015 Term Loan during the year ended December 31, 2015. Interest expense under the 2015 Term Loan was $3.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. The effective interest rate was approximately 2.35% during the year ended December 31, 2015. The weighted average nominal interest rate was approximately 2.11% during the year ended December 31, 2015. The 2015 Revolver was not in place during the year ended December 31, 2014. During 2015, the Company borrowed and repaid $25.0 million under the 2015 Term Loan. Interest expense on the 2015 Revolver for the year ended December 31, 2015, was $135,000 . Commitment fee expense for the year ended December 31, 2015, was $137,000 . One letter of credit was issued in the amount of $909,000 on June 29, 2015; therefore, the Company has borrowing availability of approximately $99.1 million under the 2015 Revolver at December 31, 2015. 2015 Refinancing and Redemption of Notes In June 2015, the Company repaid $99.6 million of principal under its 2011 Term Loan using cash on hand of $19.6 million and proceeds from the 2015 Term Loan of $80.0 million. In conjunction with this transaction, the Company recorded a charge of $2.7 million for debt issuance costs and $1.2 million original issue discount costs related to the 2011 Term Loan, which resulted in an aggregate pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $3.9 million. In July 2015, the Company redeemed $271.5 million in principal amount of Notes (representing 100% of the outstanding Notes) for a price of $285.8 million (representing a redemption price of 105.25% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest) and recorded a charge for the associated debt issuance costs of approximately $4.3 million, which resulted in an aggregate, pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of approximately $18.6 million. 2011 Credit Facility Pursuant to the 2011 Credit Agreement, the Company had the 2011 Term Loan and the 2011 Revolver. At December 31, 2014, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under the 2011 Revolver. At December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance under the 2011 Term Loan, net of unamortized transaction costs of $4.3 million, was $115.4 million. The Company made principal payments of $33.2 million, $36.5 million and $119.6 million under the 2011 Term Loan during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. Interest expense under the 2011 Term Loan was $8.8 million, $6.6 million, and $2.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. The effective interest rate was approximately 5.28% and 5.06% during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively. The weighted average nominal interest rate was approximately 4.54% and 4.05% during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2014, respectively. Interest expense under the 2011 Revolver for each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, was $0 . Under the 2011 Revolver, one letter of credit was outstanding in the amount of $202,000 at December 31, 2014. Commitment fees on the 2011 Revolver were payable on the unused revolving credit commitment at the rate of 0.50% per annum, payable quarterly. Commitment fee expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, was $152,000 , $151,000 and $89,000 , respectively. The Notes At December 31, 2014, the outstanding balance under the Notes, net of unamortized transaction costs of $4.8 million, was $266.7 million. Interest expense under the Notes was $32.3 million, $31.5 million and $16.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. After giving effect to the amortization of associated debt issuance costs, the effective interest rate of the Notes was approximately 11.0% during each of the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015. In August 2014, the Company redeemed $8.5 million in principal amount of its Notes for a price of $9.5 million and wrote-off a portion of the related debt issuance costs of $160,000 , which resulted in an aggregate, pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $1.2 million. In October 2014, the Company redeemed $20.0 million in principal amount of its Notes for a purchase price of $22.1 million and wrote-off a portion of the related debt issuance costs of $368,000 , which resulted in aggregate a pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $2.5 million. Debt Service Requirements At December 31, 2015, minimum debt service requirements, including estimated future interest, for each of the five years subsequent to December 31, 2015, and the period thereafter, were as follows: Payments Due by Period Total Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 (In thousands) Term Loan, due June 25, 2015 $ $ $ $ $ $ Transaction Costs Transaction costs in the amount of $897,000 related to the 2015 Revolver are being deferred as an asset and presented as debt transaction costs on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet and are being amortized ratably over the term of the 2015 Revolver. Transaction costs in the amount $2.6 million related to the 2015 Term Loan are presented as a direct deduction of the carrying amount of the 2015 Term Loan on the accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. Guarantees Crown Media Holdings has no independent assets or operations , the guarantees by the subsidiary guarantors are full and unconditional, joint and several, and there are no subsidiaries of Crown Media Holdings that are not subsidiary guarantors. With certain exceptions described above, the 2015 Credit Agreement impose restrictions on the payment of dividends by Crown Media Holdings and the subsidiary guarantors.

Derivatives Instrument and Hedg

Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities
Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities	7. Derivative Instrument and Hedging Activities Interest Rate Swap Agreement As of December 31, 2015, the Company has one traditional interest rate swap agreement. The interest rate swap agreement has a notional amount of $200.0 million, matures on June 25, 2020, requires the Company to pay a fixed rate of interest of 1.6775% per annum, a swap counterparty pays the Company a variable rate of interest based upon the three month LIBOR, and has interest settlement dates occurring on the 25 th of January, April, July, and October through maturity to coincide with the interest payment dates of the 2015 Term Loan. The Company designated the interest rate swap agreement as a qualifying cash flow hedge. The Company paid interest under the swap agreement of $547,000 during the year ended December 31, 2015. Risk Management Objective of Using Derivatives The Company is exposed to certain risks arising from both its business operations and economic conditions. The Company principally manages its exposures to a wide variety of business and operational risks through management of its core business activities. The Company manages economic risks, including interest rate, liquidity, and credit risk primarily by managing the amount, sources, and duration of its debt funding and the use of derivative financial instruments. Specifically, the Company enters into derivative financial instruments to manage exposures that arise from the payment of future uncertain cash amounts, which are determined by interest rates. The Company’s derivative financial instrument is used to manage differences in the amount of the Company’s expected cash payments related to the Company’s borrowings. The Company does not speculate using derivative instruments. As of December 31, 2015, the Company did not have any derivatives outstanding that were not designated in hedge accounting relationships. Cash Flow Hedges of Interest Rate Risk The Company’s objectives in using an interest rate derivative are to add stability to interest expense and to manage its exposure to interest rate movements. To accomplish these objectives, the Company uses an interest rate swap as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. During the year ended December 31, 2015, one derivative was used to hedge the variable cash flows associated with existing variable-rate debt. As of December 31, 2015, the Company had one outstanding interest rate swap agreement with a notional value of $200.0 million that was designated as a cash flow hedge of interest rate risk. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated and that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss and subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged forecasted transaction affects earnings. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives is recognized directly in earnings. During the next twelve months, the Company estimates that $1.5 million will be reclassified to interest expense from other comprehensive loss. This interest expense will also impact income tax expense. Tabular Disclosure of Fair Values of Derivative Instruments on the Balance Sheet The table below presents the fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instrument as well as its classification on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2015: As of December 31, 2015 Derivative Liability Balance Sheet Location Fair Value (in thousands) Interest rate swap designated as a hedging instrument Derivative Payable $ The unrealized loss on derivatives is recorded net of a tax benefit of $93,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015. Credit Risk-Related Contingent Features The Company has an agreement with its derivative counterparty that contains a provision where if the Company defaults on any of its indebtedness, including default where repayment of the indebtedness has not been accelerated by the lender, then the Company could also be declared in default on its derivative obligations. As of December 31, 2015, the termination value of derivative in a net liability position, which includes accrued interest, related to this agreement was $735,000 . As of December 31, 2015, the Company has posted no collateral related to this agreement. If the Company had breached any of these provisions at December 31, 2015, it could have been required to settle its obligation under the agreement at its termination value of $735,000 . Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss The following table reflects the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2015, net of tax: (Losses) Gains on Cash Flow Hedges (In thousands) Accumulated other comprehensive loss: Balance at December 31, 2014 $ — Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense, net of tax Unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax Balance at December 31, 2015 $

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions	8. Related Party Transactions Lease Guarantee with Hallmark Cards On September 2, 2008, Hallmark Cards issued a guaranty for the benefit of Crown Media United States, which guaranty pertains to a lease agreement with Paramount Group, Inc. for the office space at 1325 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York. As a condition to executing the lease agreement, the landlord required Hallmark Cards to guaranty all obligations of Crown Media United States under the lease agreement. As an inducement for Hallmark Cards to issue the guaranty, Crown Media United States agreed to pay Hallmark Cards a fee which equals 0.28% per annum of the outstanding obligation under the lease agreement. On June 29, 2015, this guaranty was terminated. Tax Sharing Agreements Pursuant to the federal tax sharing agreement entered into with Hallmark Cards on March 11, 2003, the Company’s results of operations for federal income tax reporting purposes became a part of Hallmark Cards’ consolidated federal tax group and remained so until October 31, 2012. On that later date, Hallmark Cards transferred ownership of 40 million shares of the Company’s common stock to a German subsidiary of Hallmark Cards that was not part of Hallmark Cards’ consolidated federal tax group. This transfer of common stock reduced the percentage of the Company’s common stock collectively owned by members of Hallmark Cards’ consolidated federal tax group to less than 80% , the minimum threshold required for inclusion in a consolidated federal income tax return. Effective November 1, 2012, the Company became a separate ‑company taxpayer for federal income tax reporting purposes. The stock transfer and resulting separate ‑company taxpayer status are referred to as the “Federal Tax Deconsolidation.” The Federal Tax Deconsolidation enabled the Company to access approximately $692.0 million of net operating losses (“NOLs”) it incurred prior to March 11, 2003 (the “SRLY NOLs”). Because of limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, Hallmark Cards was restricted in its ability to utilize the SRLY NOLs. As a separate-company taxpayer, the Company will be limited in the use of the SRLY NOLs only by its ability to generate sufficient future taxable income. If not utilized, the SRLY NOLs will expire in periods from 2019 through 2021. For each of the periods in which it was a member of Hallmark Cards’ consolidated federal tax group, the Company either (i) received from Hallmark Cards the incremental tax benefit related to the loss it contributed to the consolidated return or (ii) paid Hallmark Cards the incremental tax associated with the taxable income it contributed to the consolidated return. Payments received from Hallmark Cards or credited against amounts owed by the Company to any other member of Hallmark Cards’ consolidated federal tax group have been recorded as additions to paid ‑in capital. Amounts owed or payments made to Hallmark Cards or to any member of Hallmark Cards’ consolidated group in excess of current tax expense have been recorded as reductions to paid ‑in capital. Since May 9, 2000, the Company has been included in certain combined state income tax returns of Hallmark Cards or Hallmark Entertainment Holdings, Inc. (“HEH”). In connection therewith, HEH and the Company entered into a state tax sharing agreement. Under the state tax sharing agreement, Hallmark Cards (as successor to HEH upon the Recapitalization) and the Company file consolidated, combined or unitary state tax returns in some states. The Company makes tax ‑ sharing payments to (or receives payments from) Hallmark Cards equal to the taxes (or tax refunds) that the Company would pay (or receive) if it filed on a stand ‑alone basis. Such payments are computed based on the Company’s taxable income (loss) and other tax items beginning the day following the May 9, 2000 reorganization. In connection with the Recapitalization, Hallmark Cards agreed to waive the Company’s state tax liability associated with the 2010 cancellation of debt income in those states in which Hallmark Cards and the Company file a combined return. During 2013, the Company reimbursed Hallmark Cards approximately $264,000 with respect to the state tax sharing agreement for the 2012 tax year. During 2014, the Company reimbursed Hallmark Cards approximately $385,000 with respect to the state tax sharing agreement for the 2013 tax year. During 2015, the Company reimbursed Hallmark Cards approximately $72,000 with respect to the state tax sharing agreement for the 2014 tax year. For the tax year ended December 31, 2015, it is estimated that the Company will owe Hallmark Cards approximately $358,000 with respect to the state tax sharing agreement, which will be paid during 2016 two days prior to the due date of the state tax returns. The Company will continue to be included in Hallmark Cards’ consolidated or combined returns for certain states. Canadian Funds During 2015, Hallmark Cards paid $6.7 million of Canadian film costs on our behalf which we reimbursed during the same period. Additionally, we purchased $8.8 million of Canadian dollars from Hallmark Cards during 2015 at market rates. Services Agreement with Hallmark Cards Hallmark Cards provides Crown Media Holdings with tax, risk management, health, safety, environmental, insurance, legal, treasury, human resources, cash management and real estate consulting services. In exchange, the Company is obligated to pay Hallmark Cards a fee, plus out ‑of ‑pocket expenses and third party fees, in arrears on the last business day of each month. Fees for Hallmark Cards’ services were $347,000 for 2013, $342,000 for 2014 and $389,000 for 2015. At December 31, 2014, and 2015, the Company’s payables to Hallmark Cards affiliates in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets were $150,000 and $353,000 , respectively. The balance at December 31, 2014, was comprised of $150,000 of taxes. The balance at December 31, 2015, was comprised of $346,000 of taxes and $7,000 of invoices paid on the Company’s behalf. “Hallmark Hall of Fame” Programming License Agreement In 2008, Crown Media United States entered into an agreement with Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions, LLC for the exclusive television license of 58 “Hallmark Hall of Fame” movies, consisting of 16 contemporary Hallmark Hall of Fame titles ( i.e ., produced from 2003 to 2008) and 42 older titles, for exhibition on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel. These titles are licensed for ten year windows, which commenced at various times between 2007 and 2010. The total license fee for these movies is $17.2 million and is payable in equal monthly installments over the various ten ‑year exhibition windows. In 2011, Crown Media United States entered into an additional agreement with Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions, LLC for the exclusive television license of 16 “Hallmark Hall of Fame” movies produced from 2009 through 2014, for exhibition on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel. These titles are licensed for ten ‑year windows, with windows commencing at various times between 2011 and 2014, depending on availability. The total license fee for these movies is $10.0 million and is payable in equal monthly installments over the various ten ‑year exhibition windows. Effective October 1, 2014, Crown Media United States entered into an additional agreement with Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions, LLC for the exclusive television license of “Hallmark Hall of Fame” movies produced from 2014 through 2016, for exhibition on Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies and Mysteries. These titles are licensed for ten -year windows, with windows commencing at times as agreed to by the parties. The license fee for these movies is $660,000 per movie and is payable in equal yearly installments over the license term. On July 6, 2011, the Company and Hallmark Cards entered into an agreement whereby Hallmark Cards purchased advertising time from the Company and provided one week, limited play licenses for each of six new “Hallmark Hall of Fame” two ‑hour movies produced by Hallmark Cards over the two ‑year contract term. The Company recognized advertising revenue of approximately $4.4 million as it fulfilled its advertising obligation to Hallmark Cards. As of December 31, 2013, all of such movies have aired on Hallmark Channel. Effective July 6, 2013, the Company and Hallmark Cards extended the July 6, 2011 agreement for another year, whereby Hallmark Cards purchased advertising time from the Company and provided one ‑week, limited play licenses for each of two new “Hallmark Hall of Fame” two ‑hour movies produced by Hallmark Cards and up to two additional Hallmark Hall of Fame movies premiered in a previous year. The Company recognized advertising revenue of approximately $2.1 million as it fulfilled its advertising obligation to Hallmark Cards. As of December 31, 2014, all of such movies have aired on Hallmark Channel. Effective September 12, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement with Hallmark Cards whereby Hallmark Cards has purchased advertising time from the Company and has provided exclusive premier rights to the two new “Hallmark Hall of Fame” two-hour movies. Additionally, the Company has exclusive rights to broadcast two “Hallmark Hall of Fame” two-hour movies, which have premiered in a previous year. The Company has received $3.0 million under this agreement in connection with Hallmark Cards’ advertising on Hallmark Channel. The Company recognized advertising revenue of approximately $3.8 million as it fulfilled its advertising obligations to Hallmark Cards over the life of the agreement. As of December 31, 2015, four of these movies have aired on Hallmark Channel. Effective July 28, 2015, the Company entered into a new agreement with Hallmark Cards, pursuant to which Hallmark Cards has provided exclusive premier rights to a new holiday Hallmark Hall of Fame two -hour movie and has purchased advertising time from the Company for $2.3 million. The Company has received $2.3 million under this agreement and recognized the advertising revenue as it fulfilled its advertising obligations to Hallmark Cards. As of December 31, 2015, this movie has aired on Hallmark Channel. In February 2016, the Company entered into a new agreement with Hallmark Cards, pursuant to which the Company will become the producer and premier broadcaster of the Hallmark Hall of Fame television series. Hallmark Cards will continue to sponsor the series and will remain involved in the creative process, including approving scripts that build upon the series’ reputation for movies that entertain, enlighten and inspire. The Company would be obligated to produce two movies per year, one for Christmas and one for Valentine’s Day. Northpole Licensing Agreements The Company has produced Northpole , a Hallmark Channel original holiday movie, which premiered during the 2014 holiday season. It was the first full-length, two-hour original holiday movie by Hallmark Channel based on Hallmark Cards’ intellectual property. Costs in the amount of $6.6 million related to this movie have been capitalized and are included in long-term programming rights on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2015, the consolidated balance sheet reflected $2.9 million related to this film. The Company recognized licensing revenue of approximately $900,000 related to a merchandising rights agreement with Hallmark Cards during the year ended December 31, 2014, and $0 for the year ended December 31, 2015. The Company has produced Northpole: Open for Christmas , a Hallmark Channel original holiday movie, which premiered during the 2015 holiday season. It is the second full-length, two-hour original holiday movie produced by Hallmark Channel based on Hallmark Cards’ intellectual property. Costs in the amount of $6.2 million related to this movie have been capitalized and are included in long-term programming rights on the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2015. The Company recognized licensing revenue of approximately $775,000 related to this agreement during the year ended December 31, 2015. Other Program Licenses During 2011 and 2012, Hallmark Channel licensed 30 ‑minute animated specials separately featuring hoops & yoyo or Jingle Pup , popular animated characters created and owned by Hallmark Cards. The hoops & yoyo license expires in 2016. The Jingle Pup licenses expire in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Trademark Agreement with Hallmark Cards Crown Media United States has a trademark license agreement with Hallmark Licensing, LLC (f/k/a Hallmark Licensing, Inc., “Hallmark Licensing”), an affiliate of Hallmark Cards, for use of the “Hallmark” mark for Hallmark Channel and for Hallmark Movies and Mysteries. The agreement terminates upon the earlier of (i) June 30, 2021 or (ii) the payment in full of all obligations, and terminations of all commitments, under the 2015 Credit Agreement. The Company is not required to pay any royalty fees under the trademark license agreement. Accordingly, no amounts have been reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets or consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) of the Company for these licenses. Under the license agreement, the Company would be in default if it (i) distributed any programming which fails to comply with the standards outlined, or fails to comply with any other term of the agreement and does not cure such failure within 10 days of notice, (ii) fails to make any payment due under any loan agreement within five days of its due date or (iii) receives an opinion from its auditors that expresses their doubt with respect to the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, among others.

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity	9. Stockholders’ Equity The Company has not paid any cash dividends on its common stock since inception. The provisions of the 2015 Term Loan place significant restrictions on the payment of common stock dividends.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes
Income Taxes	10. Income Taxes As a result of the Federal Tax Deconsolidation in 2012, the Company files a separate federal tax return. Based on positive evidence, including the five year cumulative positive income and a reasonable expectation of continued profitability in future years, the absence of significant negative evidence and certain other matters, management determined it is more likely than not that its deferred tax assets will be realized except for certain deferred tax assets attributable to state net operating losses. Accordingly, during 2014, the Company released an additional $22.8 million of the valuation allowance. For 2013, 2014 and 2015, the Company generated federal and state taxable income for both regular tax and alternative minimum tax (“AMT”) purposes. For regular tax purposes, this income will be fully offset by net operating loss carryforwards. However, for federal AMT purposes, loss carryforwards used to offset the AMT income are subject to a 90% limitation. In recent years, changes enacted by various states have served to defer the effectiveness of the Company’s net operating loss carryforwards. Also, Colorado has suspended NOLs in excess of $250,000 for 2011 through 2013 and Illinois has suspended the use of NOLs for 2011 through 2013. Income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, comprised the following: Current Deferred Total (In thousands) 2013 Federal $ $ $ State and local Total $ $ $ 2014 Federal $ $ $ State and local Total $ $ $ 2015 Federal $ $ $ State and local Total $ $ $ The following table reconciles the income tax provision at the U.S. statutory rate to the provision per the consolidated financial statements: Year Ended December 31, 2013 2014 2015 (In thousands) Tax computed at 35% $ $ $ State taxes, net Other Change in tax rate applicable to deferred tax assets Change in state net operating loss deferred tax assets — Decrease in valuation allowance — Income tax provision $ $ $ The components of Crown Media Holdings’ deferred tax assets and liabilities are comprised of the following: Year Ended December 31, 2014 2015 (In thousands) Deferred tax assets: Bad debt reserve $ $ Accrued compensation Net operating loss carryforwards Depreciation Sale of international business and film assets Audience deficiency unit reserve Other AMT credit Valuation allowance Total deferred tax assets Deferred tax liabilities: Other Total deferred tax liabilities Net deferred taxes $ $ The Company had a deferred tax asset of $156.6 million and $106.7 million related to the cumulative SRLY NOLs as of December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively. As of December 31, 2014 and 2015, the Company had federal NOL carry ‑forwards of $447.3 million and $305.0 million, respectively, and various state NOL carry ‑forwards. The $2.3 million of valuation allowance described below is comprised of state NOLs. The federal NOLs will expire between 2020 and 2021, and the state NOLs will expire between 2016 and 2032. The activity in the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013, 2014, and 2015, is as follows (in thousands): Balance at Additions Beginning of Charged to (Deductions) / Balance at Year Expense Additions End of Year Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets Year ‑ ended December 31, 2013 $ $ — $ — $ Year ‑ ended December 31, 2014 $ $ — $ $ Year ‑ ended December 31, 2015 $ $ — $ $ At December 31, 2014 and 2015, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions was $0 . The Company recognized no increase or decrease in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions. At December 31, 2014 and 2015, the Company had no accrued interest related to uncertain tax positions. By virtue of its inclusion in Hallmark Cards consolidated tax returns, the Company is subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for periods subsequent to March 10, 2003, and prior to the Federal Tax Deconsolidation. The Internal Revenue Service audited the Hallmark Cards consolidated tax returns for 2010 through 2013. The separate tax returns of the Company from November 1 through December 31, 2012, 2013, 2014 through 2015 are also subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. Further, net operating loss carry ‑forwards are subject to examination in the year they are utilized regardless of whether the tax year in which they were generated has been closed by statute. The amount subject to disallowance is limited to the NOL utilized. Accordingly, the Company is subject to examination for SRLY NOLs generated prior to March 11, 2003, as such NOLs are utilized. As of 2013 and 2014, the Company had separate company nexus in New York and Georgia and had also been included in the combined state tax returns of Hallmark Cards or its subsidiaries for California, Colorado and Illinois. Beginning in 2015, the Company will also be included in the combined state income tax return of Hallmark Cards for New York and New York City.

Fair Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value.
Fair Value	11. Fair Value The following table presents the carrying amounts (including interest) and estimated fair values (including interest) of the Company’s financial instruments at December 31, 2014 and 2015. December 31, 2014 December 31, 2015 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value (In thousands) 2011 Term Loan and interest payable (Level 3) $ $ $ — $ — Notes and interest payable (Level 2) — — Interest rate swap (Level 2) — — 2015 Term Loan and interest payable (Level 3) — — ASC Topic 820 Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures defines fair value of a liability as the price that would be paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The Company estimated the fair value of the Notes using the trading prices obtained from Bloomberg on December 31, 2014, a Level 2 input, due to the limited amount of trading activity. The Company estimated the fair value of the interest rate swap using the trading prices obtained from Bloomberg on December 31, 2015, a Level 2 input. The Company estimated the fair value of its 2011 Term Loan and 2015 Term Loan using a yield ‑to ‑maturity rate obtained from a pricing service, a Level 3 input. At December 31, 2014 and 2015, the fair values of the Level 3 financial instruments were $11 6 . 0 million and $325.5 million, respectively. No transfers between levels occurred during 2014 and 2015. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and receivable are carried at reasonable estimates of their fair values because of the short-term nature of these instruments. Interest rates on borrowings under the revolvers are for relatively short periods and variable. Therefore, the fair value of this debt is not significantly affected by fluctuations in interest rates. The credit spread on the debt is fixed, but the market rate will fluctuate. Only a significant change in the creditworthiness of the Company would impact the credit spread. The Company believes that there has not been a significant change in this regard since issuance.

Employee Benefits

Employee Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Employee Benefits
Employee Benefits	12. Employee Benefits Benefit Plans All employees of Crown Media Holdings are automatically enrolled in the Company’s 401(k) retirement plan. Employees have 90 days to terminate their participation in the plan and the plan will refund any contributions. Participating employees may contribute up to 60% of their pre ‑tax salary, subject to a maximum contribution limit as determined by the Internal Revenue Service, and up to 16% of after ‑tax salary, not to exceed 60% total of combined pre ‑tax and after ‑tax contributions. During the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, the Company recognized discretionary matching contributions of $432,000 , $505,000 and $ 549,000, respectively, which are included in selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Deferred Compensation Plans The Company sponsors a deferred compensation plan for its management. Participants in this plan earn interest on their deferred compensation. Related liabilities of $2. 3 million and $2.4 million at December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, are included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets among current and non ‑current accrued liabilities. The Company also sponsors a deferred compensation plan for its Board of Directors. Participants in this plan earn interest on their deferred compensation. Related liabilities of $340,000 and $335,000 at December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, are included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets among current and non ‑current accrued liabilities. Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements Employee The Company grants incentive awards pursuant to the 2012 Long Term Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”). For awards granted in 2012 through 2015, the target amount of an award granted was based on a percentage of each employee’s annual base salary ranging from 18% to 85% . Each award is comprised of a Performance Award and an Employment Award. For awards granted in 2010 through 2012, the Performance Award and the Employment Award each constituted half of the award. For awards granted in 2013 through 2015, the Performance Award constituted 60% of the award and the Employment Award constituted 40% of the award. The Performance Award is based on the Company’s achievement of a predetermined cash flow goal (cash flow before interest, taxes and long term incentive expense, and debt repayments) and an adjusted EBITDA goal (earnings before interest and taxes) over a three year performance period. Each of the 40% Employment Awards are subject to continued employment and each of the 60% Performance Awards are subject to the Company’s achievement of financial performance criteria. Each award will be settled in cash and is subject to earlier pro rata settlement as provided in the 2012 Plan. Changes in the employee long term incentive plan account are as follows: Settlement (in thousands) Granted Incentive Compensation Range Vesting Date Employment Awards Performance Awards Grant Date Low Grant High Grant Employment Awards Performance Awards Date Amount Date Amount 4/25/2011 $ $ 8/31/2013 12/31/2013 9/6/2013 $ 3/14/2014 $ 3/1/2012 8/31/2014 12/31/2014 9/5/2014 3/6/2015 3/1/2013 12/31/2015 12/31/2015 2/26/2016 2/26/2016 3/1/2014 12/31/2016 12/31/2016 N/A — N/A — 3/1/2015 12/31/2017 12/31/2017 N/A — N/A — Independent Directors The Company entered into agreements (“LTI Agreements”) granting incentive compensation to each director who is not an employee of the Company or Hallmark Cards or their respective subsidiaries subject to continued membership on the Company’s board and achievement of the financial performance criteria. Each award will be settled in cash and is subject to earlier pro rata settlement as provided in each LTI Agreement. Changes in the independent director long term incentive plan account are as follows: Settlement (in thousands) Grant Date Grant Amount Vesting Date Date Amount 8/17/2012 $ 12/31/2014 3/4/2015 $ 3/1/2013 12/31/2015 2/26/2016 8/16/2013 8/15/2014 8/19/2014 3/1/2014 12/31/2016 N/A — 3/1/2015 12/31/2017 N/A — Vesting The 2013 Performance Awards vested on December 31, 2015, and were determined in accordance with the Company performance criteria concerning adjusted EBITDA and cash flow. Vesting of the 2014 and 2015 Performance Awards will also be determined in accordance with the Company performance criteria concerning adjusted EBITDA and cash flow. Each award is subject to earlier pro rata settlement as provided in the related agreement. The Company recorded $ 3.7 million, $ 4.2 million and $4. 6 million of expense included in selling, general and administrative expense in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively, related to these agreements. Additionally, the $5. 9 million and $ 8.2 million liabilities for these agreements was included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies	13. Commitments and Contingencies In the normal course of business, the Company has entered into agreements that commit it to make cash payments in future periods with respect to non ‑cancelable leases and programming contracts. An entity providing licensed programming is required to report an asset and liability for the rights licensed under a programming agreement only when the license period has begun and when certain other defined requirements are met. As such, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets do not reflect both gross assets and liabilities of $132.4 million and $94.8 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2015, respectively, related to committed programming rights payable with airing windows which begin subsequent to period ‑end. At December 31, 2015, contractual maturities of long ‑term obligations over the next five years and the period thereafter are as follows: Scheduled Payments by Period in Thousands Contractual Obligations Total 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter Term Loan(1) $ $ $ $ $ $ $ — Capital lease obligations(1) — — Operating leases Programming rights payable for current and future windows(2)(3)(4) Executory contracts — — — — — Promotion and placement fees Deferred compensation and interest — Total Contractual Cash Obligations $ $ $ $ $ $ $ (1) Amounts are based on interest rates, interest payment dates and contractual maturities in effect as of December 31, 2015. These amounts are presented for illustrative purposes only and will likely differ from the actual cash payments required in future periods. In addition, the amounts presented do not include the impact of our interest rate derivative contracts, deferred financing costs, discounts or premiums, all of which affect our overall cost of borrowing. (2) The amounts and timing for certain of these commitments are contingent upon the future delivery date and type of programming produced, and, as such, the estimated amount and timing may change. (3) Contains airing windows that open subsequent to December 31, 2015. Therefore, the additional liability is not included on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. (4) Includes barter of $9.3 million. Litigation From time to time, the Company and/or various officers and directors may be named as defendants in legal actions involving various claims incident to the conduct of its business. Whenever the Company concludes that an adverse outcome in any such action is probable and a loss amount can reasonably be estimated, the Company records such loss amount. Related legal costs, net of anticipated insurance reimbursements, are expensed as incurred.

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting	14. Segment Reporting During 2013, 2014 and 2015, the Networks comprise the Company’s sole operating segment. The Company has evaluated performance and allocated resources based on the results of this segment. The key operating performance criteria used in this evaluation include revenue, loss from continuing operations and total assets.

Quarterly Information (Unaudite

Quarterly Information (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Information (Unaudited)	15. Quarterly Information (Unaudited) The following tables contain unaudited quarterly financial data (in thousands, except per share amounts) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015. Quarters Ended 2014 March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, Full Year Total revenue $ $ $ $ $ Programming costs Operating costs Selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses Income from operations Interest expense Loss on extinguishment of debt — — Income tax provision Income from continuing operations Loss from sale of discontinued operations — — — Net income $ $ $ $ $ Net income per share of common stock $ $ $ $ $ Quarters Ended 2015 March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, Full Year Total revenue $ $ $ $ $ Programming costs Operating costs Selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses Income from operations Interest expense Loss on extinguishment of debt — — Income tax provision Income from continuing operations Loss from sale of discontinued operations — — — Net income $ $ $ $ $ Net income per share of common stock $ $ $ $ $ See note 10 above for discussions regarding non ‑routine quarterly activity.

Summary of Significant Accoun23

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Crown Media Holdings and its wholly ‑owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the consideration of events or transactions that occur after the balance sheet date but before the financial statements are issued. Depending on the nature of the subsequent event, financial statement recognition or disclosure of the subsequent event may be required.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and the underlying assumptions affect the amounts of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenue and expenses. Such estimates include the collectibility of accounts receivable, the valuation of goodwill, intangible assets and other long-lived assets, the net realizable value of programming rights, the fair value of film assets, legal contingencies, indemnifications, barter transactions, and assumptions used in the calculation of income taxes and related valuation allowance, among others. All of the estimates that are employed are based on management’s best estimates and judgment. Management evaluates its estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances. Management adjusts such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes, if any, in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible into cash and are not subject to significant risk from fluctuations in interest rates. As a result, the carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	Allowance for Doubtful Accounts The allowance for doubtful accounts is based upon the Company’s assessment of probable loss related to uncollectible accounts receivable. The Company uses a number of factors in determining the allowance, including, among other things, the financial condition of specific customers and collection trends.
Programming Rights	Programming Rights Programming rights usually comprise feature films, series, shows, and other broadcastable productions that make up a broadcaster’s television schedules. Individual rights on which these programming assets are based are also referred to as film rights. Film rights comprise the rights associated with a film or program that a television broadcaster must hold in order to exploit it on the market. Such film rights are usually acquired in the form of a film or television licensing agreement, for example with license sellers, or in the form of production agreements with producers. Among other things, a licensing agreement stipulates the type and amount of the license fee, the broadcast area, broadcast time, number of broadcasts, and the form of exploitation. The Company’s programming rights principally consist of rights to off ‑network, theatrical and original movies; off ‑network and original scripted series; original unscripted series and specials. Original series and specials consist of lifestyle, dramatic and other entertainment programming. Programming aired on the Company’s Networks is primarily obtained from third ‑party production companies and distributors and is classified as acquired or original programming in the footnotes to these financial statements. Programming aired on the Company’s Networks obtained from subsidiaries of Hallmark Cards is classified as affiliate programming. See note 3 below for programming rights assets and payable related to Hallmark Cards affiliates. Acquired programming consists of series, films and specials that have been previously produced and have often been previously exhibited by third parties for which the Company licenses limited broadcast rights for a specific time period. The licensed exhibitions can vary from a single broadcast to multiple broadcasts over several years, and the license typically requires payments during the term of the license. The cost of acquired programming is capitalized when the license period begins and the program is available for use. Original programming consists of movies, series and specials that are specifically produced for the Company’s Networks. The Company often funds the production of original programs; this production funding is classified as prepaid programming rights until production is completed and the program is available for use. Capitalized programming costs are stated at the lower of cost less accumulated amortization or net realizable value (fair value for owned programming). Amortization of licensed programming rights is recognized over the contractual term on a straight ‑line basis or the estimated useful life, if shorter. Amortization of the capitalized costs of licensed programming commences when the license period begins and the program is available for use. The portion of the unamortized programming rights that will be amortized within one year is classified as current programming rights on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The Company periodically evaluates the net realizable value of its licensed programming rights by considering expected future revenue generation on a portfolio basis. Estimates of future revenue consider historical airing patterns and future plans for airing programming, including any changes in strategy. Estimated future revenue may differ from actual revenue based on changes in expectations related to market acceptance, advertising demand, the number of cable and satellite television subscribers receiving the Company’s Networks, program usage and actual performance of the Company’s programming. Accordingly, the Company continually reviews revenue estimates and planned usage and revises its assumptions if necessary. Given the significant estimates and judgments involved, actual demand or market conditions may be less favorable than those projected, requiring a write ‑down to net realizable value. Certain original programs are fully owned and produced by the Company. Therefore, these are classified as owned programming. Amortization of the capitalized costs of owned programming is amortized over the expected and likely broadcasts of the program. The Company’s unamortized owned programming of $2 5.0 million is classified as long ‑term programming rights on the accompanying consolidated balance sheets in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (the “ASC”) Topic 926, Entertainment - Films . The Company amortizes its internally produced films using the individual-film-forecast-computation method. The individual-film-forecast-computation method amortizes such assets in the same ratio that current period actual revenue bears to estimated ultimate future revenues. On a quarterly basis, the Company assesses whether events or circumstances have changed indicating that the fair value of a film is lower than its unamortized cost or carrying value. If the carrying value of any individual film asset exceeds its fair value, the film asset is written-down to its estimated fair value. The Company reviews its estimates of ultimate future revenues and participation costs as of each reporting date to reflect currently available information. Estimated ultimate future revenues are based on sales plans and other factors, all of which require significant judgment and estimation by management. Differences between amortization expense determined using the new estimates and any amounts previously expensed during that current fiscal year are charged or credited to the consolidated statement of operations in the period in which the estimates are revised.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment is stated at historical cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Equipment under capital leases is initially recorded at the present value of the respective minimum lease payments. Depreciation on equipment is calculated using the straight ‑line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Equipment held under capital leases and leasehold improvements are amortized straight ‑line over the shorter of the lease term or estimated useful life of the asset. When property and equipment is sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation or amortization are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is included in the consolidated statement of operations. The costs of normal maintenance and repairs are charged to expense when incurred.
Long-Lived Assets and Goodwill	Long ‑Lived Assets and Goodwill The Company reviews long ‑lived assets, other than goodwill, for impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of the assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is evaluated by comparing the carrying amount of an asset to the estimated undiscounted future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset including its ultimate disposal. If the asset’s carrying value was estimated to be not recoverable from future cash flows, an impairment charge would be recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. The Company estimates fair values by using a combination of comparable market values and discounted cash flows, as appropriate. Goodwill is reviewed for impairment annually as of November 30 and whenever the occurrence of an event or a change in circumstances would suggest that the carrying value of goodwill might be in excess of its fair value. All of the Company’s goodwill relates to the Company’s Networks, which is also the Company’s only reporting unit. For its annual impairment assessment, the Company will first assess qualitatively whether it is more likely than not that goodwill is impaired. If the Company believes, as a result of its qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the Company performs a quantitative two ‑step goodwill impairment test that considers the fair value of the reporting unit relative to its carrying amount, and then records an impairment charge for the amount that the implied fair value of goodwill exceeds its carrying amount. The Company has the unconditional option to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the first step of the goodwill impairment test. At November 30, 2015, the date of the Company’s most recent assessment, the Company concluded it was not more likely than not that the fair value of the its sole reporting unit was less than the related carrying amount.
Legal Costs and Contingencies	Legal Costs and Contingencies In the normal course of business, the Company incurs costs to hire and retain external legal counsel to advise it on regulatory, litigation and other matters. The Company expenses these costs as the related services are received. If a loss is considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated, the Company recognizes an expense for the estimated loss. If the Company has the potential to recover a portion of the estimated loss from a third party, the Company makes a separate assessment of recoverability and reduces the estimated loss if recovery is also deemed probable.
Leases	Leases The Company recognizes rent expense on a straight line basis over the lease term. Assets subject to capital leases are capitalized as property and equipment at the inception of the lease and depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or their estimated useful lives. The related liabilities are included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
Barter Transactions	Barter Transactions The Company enters into transactions that involve the exchange of its on ‑air advertising spots, in part, for other products and services, such as programming rights. Programming rights and the related deferred advertising revenue that result from such transactions are recognized at the estimated fair value when the programming is available for telecast. Barter programming rights are amortized in the same manner as non ‑barter programming rights and advertising revenue is recognized when delivered. The Company recognized $2.4 million , $2.8 million and $2.6 million in barter advertising revenue during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively. The Company recognized $2.2 million, $3. 0 million and $2.7 million in barter expense during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures , provides guidance which defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and specifies disclosures about fair value measurements. The Company determines fair value as an exit price, representing the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. The Company has balance sheet items (derivative liability and other comprehensive loss) measured at fair value on a recurring basis related to its interest rate swap. Significant balance sheet items which are subject to non-recurring fair value measurements consist of impairment valuations of goodwill, promotion and placement fees, property and equipment, and owned programming and barter advertising revenue and programming.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Subscriber revenue from pay television distributors is recognized as revenue when an agreement is executed, programming is provided, the price is fixed and determinable, and collectibility is reasonably assured. Subscriber fees from pay television distributors are recorded net of amortization of promotion and placement costs. Advertising revenue, net of agency commissions, is recognized in the period in which related commercial spots or long form programming are aired. If the ratings guarantees associated with the programming in which the advertising appears are not achieved, recognition of a portion of the revenue from the advertising is deferred until the guarantees are satisfied by providing the advertisers with additional advertising time. Agency commissions are calculated based on a stated percentage applied to gross billing revenue for the Company’s broadcasting operations. Customers remit the gross billing amount to their respective agencies, after which each agency remits the amount collected less its commission to the Company. Payments received in advance of being earned are recorded as deferred revenue. Included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2015, is $2.9 million and $3.1 million, respectively, of deferred revenue. Further, $5.9 million and $6.0 million, respectively, are included in the long term portion of accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2014 and 2015. Revenues from the licensing of television programming are recorded when the content is available for telecast by the licensee and when certain other conditions are met.
Audience Deficiency Unit Liability	Audience Deficiency Unit Liability Audience deficiency units (“ADUs”) are units of inventory (rights to utilize future advertising timeframes) that are made available to advertisers as fulfillment for past advertisements in programs that under ‑delivered on the guaranteed viewership ratings. The related liability results when impressions delivered on guaranteed ratings are less than the impressions guaranteed to advertisers. The liability is reduced and revenue is recognized when the Company airs the advertisement during another program to “make ‑good” on the under ‑delivery of impressions or the obligation expires contractually or by statute.
Marketing Expense	Marketing Expense The Company expenses marketing expense as incurred.
Transaction Costs	Transaction Costs The 2015 Term Loan transaction costs are being amortized using the effective interest method. The 2015 Revolver transaction costs are being amortized on a straight line basis over the term.
Taxes on Income	Taxes on Income Income tax expense or benefit comprises (i) amounts estimated to be payable or receivable with respect to the Company’s income or loss for the period pursuant to the statutory provisions of the various federal, state and local jurisdictions in which the Company is subject to taxation and (ii) the changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities during the period. The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities, including related operating loss and tax credit carryforwards, using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Net deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that management believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial operations. In the event management subsequently determines that the Company would likely be able to realize deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be recorded with a corresponding reduction in the provision for income taxes. Management periodically evaluates the sustainability of tax positions taken. Whenever management estimates the probability of sustaining a tax position is at least more likely than not ( i.e. , greater than 50%), the tax position is deemed warranted and is recognized at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized as income tax expense.
Foreign Currency Translation	Foreign Currency Translation Foreign currency monetary items are stated in U.S. dollars, the Company’s functional currency, measured at exchange rates at the balance sheet date, with currency transaction gains and losses recorded in income. Transaction adjustment expense of $183,000 has been recorded for the year ended December 31, 2015. The Company did not have transaction adjustment expense during 2013 or 2014.
Net Income per Share	Net Income per Share Basic net income per share for each period is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per share for each period is computed by dividing net income attributable to common stock by the weighted average number of shares of common stock plus potentially dilutive common shares outstanding except whenever any such effect would be antidilutive.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments, which potentially subject Crown Media Holdings to a concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents and accounts receivable. Generally, Crown Media Holdings does not require collateral to secure receivables. Crown Media Holdings has no significant off ‑balance sheet financial instruments with risk of accounting losses. Five , five and four of the Company’s distributors, with whom we have long term contracts, each accounted for more than 10% of subscriber revenue for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, respectively, and together accounted for a total of 88% , 88% and 75% of subscriber revenue, respectively. Two of our distributors each accounted for approximately 15% or more of the Company’s subscribers for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2014 and 2015, and together accounted for 46% , 45% and 42% of Hallmark Channel subscribers, respectively. The loss of one of these distributors could have a significant impact on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations. F our and three of the Company’s programming content providers each accounted for more than 10% of total programming rights payable as of both December 31, 2014 and 2015, and together accounted for a total of 74% and 63% of the programming rights payable, respectively.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made in prior year’s consolidated balance sheet to conform to classifications used in the current year. Approximately $23.4 million of current prepaid programming rights were reclassified to non-current prepaid programming rights as of December 31, 2014 .
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09 , Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU No. 2014-09”). This ASU supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC 605—Revenue Recognition and most industry specific guidance throughout the Codification. The standard requires that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The updated guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. Earlier adoption is permitted for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. The Company is in the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of accounting standards update ASU No. 2014-09 on its financial position and results of operations. In January 2015, the FASB issued new accounting rules that remove the concept of extraordinary items from GAAP. Under the existing guidance, an entity is required to separately disclose extraordinary items, net of tax, in the income statement after income from continuing operations if an event or transaction is of an unusual nature and occurs infrequently. This separate, net of tax presentation (and corresponding earnings per share impact) will no longer be allowed. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2016. The Company does not expect the adoption of the new accounting rules to have a material impact on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.
Adoption of Recent Accounting Principles	Adoption of Recent Accounting Principles The Company historically presented debt issuance costs as assets on its accompanying consolidated balance sheets. In April 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-03, Interest — Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs. This guidance requires that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability with fixed maturities be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. This guidance requires retrospective application. In conjunction with the 2015 Refinancing, the Company early adopted this guidance beginning the quarter ended June 30, 2015 and applied this guidance retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the Company’s accompanying consolidated balance sheets. This policy did not change the accounting for the issuance costs related to the 2011 Revolver and 2015 Revolver. The reclassification does not impact any prior amounts reported in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) or cash flows. The following table presents the effects of the retrospective application of this change in accounting principle on the Company’s accompanying consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014 Prior to Adoption of ASU 2015-03 ASU 2015-03 Adjustment As Adopted (In thousands) Debt issuance costs, net $ $ $ Total assets Long term debt, net of current maturities Total liabilities Total liabilities and stockholders' equity In November 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-17, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes . This guidance requires that all deferred tax assets and liabilities, along with any related valuation allowance, be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. This guidance may be applied either prospectively or retrospectively. The Company early adopted this guidance during the year ended December 31, 2015, and applied this guidance retrospectively to all prior periods presented in the Company’s accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Approximately $46.9 million of current net deferred tax assets were reclassified to non-current net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2014.

Summary of Significant Accoun24

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates
Schedule of change in accounting principle on the Company’s accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheet	As of December 31, 2014 Prior to Adoption of ASU 2015-03 ASU 2015-03 Adjustment As Adopted (In thousands) Debt issuance costs, net $ $ $ Total assets Long term debt, net of current maturities Total liabilities Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

Programming Rights (Tables)

Programming Rights (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Programming Rights
Schedule of programming rights	As of December 31, 2014 2015 (In thousands) Programming rights — non-affiliates Acquired programming Licensed for less than 12 years $ $ Original programming Licensed for less than 12 years Licensed for 12 years or longer Owned Programming rights— Hallmark Cards affiliates Licensed for less than 12 years Programming rights, at cost Accumulated amortization Programming rights available for broadcast Owned programming in development Programming rights, net $ $
Schedule of programming rights payable	As of December 31, 2014 2015 (In thousands) Programming rights payable — non-affiliates Acquired programming $ $ Original programming Programming rights payable — Hallmark Cards affiliates Total programming rights payable Less current maturities Long-term programming rights payable $ $

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Property and Equipment
Schedule of property and equipment	As of December 31, Depreciable Life 2014 2015 (In years) (In thousands) Technical equipment and computers $ $ - Leased assets - Furniture, fixtures and equipment Leasehold improvements - Construction-in-progress Property and equipment, at cost Accumulated depreciation and amortization Property and equipment, net $ $

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Leases
Schedule of future minimum lease payments under the agreements	Years Ending December 31, Capital Operating (in thousands) Leases(1) Leases(2) 2016 $ $ 2017 2018 2019 2020 — Thereafter — Total minimum lease payments $ Less amount representing interest (at implicit rates of 9.38% and 3.31%) Present value of net minimum lease payments Less current maturities Long-term obligation $ (1) The Company has three capital lease obligations. Includes cancellable amounts related to parking spaces for the Studio City, California, office in the amounts of $130,000 for 2016 through 2019 , and $97,000 for 2020.

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Debt
Schedule of debt service requirements, including estimated future interest, for each of the five years	Payments Due by Period Total Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 (In thousands) Term Loan, due June 25, 2015 $ $ $ $ $ $

Derivatives Instrument and He29

Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities
Schedule of fair value of the derivative financial instrument as well as its classification on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet	As of December 31, 2015 Derivative Liability Balance Sheet Location Fair Value (in thousands) Interest rate swap designated as a hedging instrument Derivative Payable $
Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss	(Losses) Gains on Cash Flow Hedges (In thousands) Accumulated other comprehensive loss: Balance at December 31, 2014 $ — Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense, net of tax Unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax Balance at December 31, 2015 $

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Taxes
Income tax (benefit) expense	Current Deferred Total (In thousands) 2013 Federal $ $ $ State and local Total $ $ $ 2014 Federal $ $ $ State and local Total $ $ $ 2015 Federal $ $ $ State and local Total $ $ $
Schedule of reconciliation of the income tax provision at the U.S. statutory rate to the provision	Year Ended December 31, 2013 2014 2015 (In thousands) Tax computed at 35% $ $ $ State taxes, net Other Change in tax rate applicable to deferred tax assets Change in state net operating loss deferred tax assets — Decrease in valuation allowance — Income tax provision $ $ $
Schedule of components of the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities	Year Ended December 31, 2014 2015 (In thousands) Deferred tax assets: Bad debt reserve $ $ Accrued compensation Net operating loss carryforwards Depreciation Sale of international business and film assets Audience deficiency unit reserve Other AMT credit Valuation allowance Total deferred tax assets Deferred tax liabilities: Other Total deferred tax liabilities Net deferred taxes $ $
Schedule of the activity in the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets	The activity in the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets for each of the three years ended December 31, 2013, 2014, and 2015, is as follows (in thousands): Balance at Additions Beginning of Charged to (Deductions) / Balance at Year Expense Additions End of Year Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets Year ‑ ended December 31, 2013 $ $ — $ — $ Year ‑ ended December 31, 2014 $ $ — $ $ Year ‑ ended December 31, 2015 $ $ — $ $

Fair Value (Tables)

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Fair Value.
Schedule of the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of the company's financial instruments	December 31, 2014 December 31, 2015 Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value (In thousands) 2011 Term Loan and interest payable (Level 3) $ $ $ — $ — Notes and interest payable (Level 2) — — Interest rate swap (Level 2) — — 2015 Term Loan and interest payable (Level 3) — —

Employee Benefits (Tables)

Employee Benefits (Tables) - LTI Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Schedule of changes in the long term incentive plan account	Settlement (in thousands) Granted Incentive Compensation Range Vesting Date Employment Awards Performance Awards Grant Date Low Grant High Grant Employment Awards Performance Awards Date Amount Date Amount 4/25/2011 $ $ 8/31/2013 12/31/2013 9/6/2013 $ 3/14/2014 $ 3/1/2012 8/31/2014 12/31/2014 9/5/2014 3/6/2015 3/1/2013 12/31/2015 12/31/2015 2/26/2016 2/26/2016 3/1/2014 12/31/2016 12/31/2016 N/A — N/A — 3/1/2015 12/31/2017 12/31/2017 N/A — N/A —
Independent director
Schedule of changes in the long term incentive plan account	Settlement (in thousands) Grant Date Grant Amount Vesting Date Date Amount 8/17/2012 $ 12/31/2014 3/4/2015 $ 3/1/2013 12/31/2015 2/26/2016 8/16/2013 8/15/2014 8/19/2014 3/1/2014 12/31/2016 N/A — 3/1/2015 12/31/2017 N/A —

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies
Schedule of contractual maturities of long-term obligations over the next five years and the period thereafter	Scheduled Payments by Period in Thousands Contractual Obligations Total 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Thereafter Term Loan(1) $ $ $ $ $ $ $ — Capital lease obligations(1) — — Operating leases Programming rights payable for current and future windows(2)(3)(4) Executory contracts — — — — — Promotion and placement fees Deferred compensation and interest — Total Contractual Cash Obligations $ $ $ $ $ $ $ (1) Amounts are based on interest rates, interest payment dates and contractual maturities in effect as of December 31, 2015. These amounts are presented for illustrative purposes only and will likely differ from the actual cash payments required in future periods. In addition, the amounts presented do not include the impact of our interest rate derivative contracts, deferred financing costs, discounts or premiums, all of which affect our overall cost of borrowing. (2) The amounts and timing for certain of these commitments are contingent upon the future delivery date and type of programming produced, and, as such, the estimated amount and timing may change. (3) Contains airing windows that open subsequent to December 31, 2015. Therefore, the additional liability is not included on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. (4) Includes barter of $9.3 million.

Quarterly Information (Unaudi34

Quarterly Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Information (Unaudited)
Schedule of unaudited quarterly financial data	Quarters Ended 2014 March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, Full Year Total revenue $ $ $ $ $ Programming costs Operating costs Selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses Income from operations Interest expense Loss on extinguishment of debt — — Income tax provision Income from continuing operations Loss from sale of discontinued operations — — — Net income $ $ $ $ $ Net income per share of common stock $ $ $ $ $ Quarters Ended 2015 March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, Full Year Total revenue $ $ $ $ $ Programming costs Operating costs Selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses Income from operations Interest expense Loss on extinguishment of debt — — Income tax provision Income from continuing operations Loss from sale of discontinued operations — — — Net income $ $ $ $ $ Net income per share of common stock $ $ $ $ $

Business and Organization (Deta

Business and Organization (Details) - segment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Business and Organization
Number of operating segments	1	1	1

Summary of Significant Accoun36

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Programming Rights
Programming Rights Owned	$ 25,000,000
Barter Transactions
Barter advertising revenue	2,600,000	$ 2,800,000	$ 2,400,000
Barter expense	2,700,000	3,000,000	2,200,000
Revenue Recognition
Deferred revenue, current	3,100,000	2,900,000
Deferred revenue, long term portion	6,000,000	5,900,000
Foreign Currency Translation
Translation adjustment expense	$ 183,000	$ 0	$ 0

Summary of Significant Accoun37

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates (ConRisk) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015Distributoritem	Dec. 31, 2014Distributoritem	Dec. 31, 2013Distributoritem
Subscriber revenue | Distributors concentration
Concentration of Risk
Concentration of risk (as a percent)	75.00%	88.00%	88.00%
Number of major distributors | Distributor	4	5	5
Threshold for concentration of risk (as a percent)	10.00%	10.00%	10.00%
Hallmark Channel subscribers | Distributors concentration
Concentration of Risk
Concentration of risk (as a percent)	42.00%	45.00%	46.00%
Number of major distributors	2	2	2
Threshold for concentration of risk (as a percent)	15.00%	15.00%	15.00%
Programming rights | Programming content providers concentration
Concentration of Risk
Concentration of risk (as a percent)	63.00%	74.00%
Number of programming content providers	3	4
Threshold for concentration of risk (as a percent)	10.00%	10.00%

Summary of Significant Accoun38

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Estimates (Adopted) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Prepaid programming rights, current		$ 10,419
Prepaid programming rights, non-current	$ 23,947	29,363
Debt issuance costs, net	805	227
Total assets	1,088,137	1,054,462
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	310,222	362,050
Total liabilities	508,574	560,824
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	1,088,137	1,054,462
Non-current net deferred tax assets	$ 146,180	194,368
Early Adoption
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Current net deferred tax assets		(46,900)
Non-current net deferred tax assets		46,900
Prior to Adoption
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Debt issuance costs, net		7,878
Total assets		1,062,113
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		369,701
Total liabilities		568,475
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		1,062,113
Adjustment
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Prepaid programming rights, current		(23,400)
Prepaid programming rights, non-current		23,400
Debt issuance costs, net		(7,651)
Total assets		(7,651)
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		(7,651)
Total liabilities		(7,651)
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		(7,651)
As Adopted
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
Debt issuance costs, net		227
Total assets		1,054,462
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		362,050
Total liabilities		560,824
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity		$ 1,054,462

Programming Rights (Details)

Programming Rights (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Programming Rights
Programming rights, at cost	$ 773,370,000				$ 631,041,000				$ 773,370,000	$ 631,041,000
Accumulated amortization	(398,582,000)				(325,046,000)				(398,582,000)	(325,046,000)
Programming rights available for broadcast	374,788,000				305,995,000				374,788,000	305,995,000
Owned programming in development	5,228,000				1,619,000				5,228,000	1,619,000
Programming rights, net	380,016,000				307,614,000				$ 380,016,000	307,614,000
Shortened estimated remaining life of programming rights									0 years
Additional amortization of programming rights									$ 15,000,000	7,000	$ 4,500,000
Programming rights, included in prepaid programming rights	24,000,000				39,800,000				24,000,000	39,800,000
Carrying amount of owned programming	25,000,000								25,000,000
Programming costs	56,564,000	$ 43,458,000	$ 41,411,000	$ 34,758,000	34,164,000	$ 36,800,000	$ 37,471,000	$ 40,161,000	176,191,000	148,596,000	$ 134,000,000
Programming rights payable
Total programming rights payable	122,563,000				112,402,000				122,563,000	112,402,000
Less current maturities	(73,654,000)				(66,726,000)				(73,654,000)	(66,726,000)
Long-term programming rights payable	48,909,000				45,676,000				48,909,000	45,676,000
Minimum
Programming Rights
Carrying amount of owned programming	4,000,000								4,000,000
Expected amortization of programming rights owned during the next fiscal year										4,000,000
Maximum
Programming Rights
Carrying amount of owned programming	5,000,000								5,000,000
Hallmark Cards affiliates
Programming Rights
Programming rights licensed for less than 12 years	28,334,000				25,694,000				28,334,000	25,694,000
Programming rights payable
Total programming rights payable	13,643,000				13,623,000				13,643,000	13,623,000
Acquired programming | Non-Affiliates
Programming Rights
Acquired programming licensed for less than 12 years	292,990,000				298,731,000				292,990,000	298,731,000
Programming rights payable
Total programming rights payable	94,201,000				88,856,000				94,201,000	88,856,000
Original programming | Non-Affiliates
Programming Rights
Original programming licensed for less than 12 years	250,189,000				200,760,000				250,189,000	200,760,000
Original programming licensed for 12 years or longer	118,717,000				62,585,000				118,717,000	62,585,000
Original programming owned	83,140,000				43,271,000				83,140,000	43,271,000
Programming rights payable
Total programming rights payable	$ 14,719,000				$ 9,923,000				$ 14,719,000	$ 9,923,000

Property and Equipment (Details

Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 31,786	$ 31,301
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	(23,198)	(20,538)
Property and equipment, net	8,588	10,763
Depreciation and amortization expense	3,100	2,800	$ 2,600
Software and other intangible assets	1,100	1,100
Technical equipment and computers
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 11,388	9,852
Technical equipment and computers | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	3 years
Technical equipment and computers | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	5 years
Leased assets
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 17,384	17,409
Leased assets | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	3 years
Leased assets | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	15 years
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 990	952
Furniture, fixtures and equipment | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	5 years
Leasehold improvements
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 1,638	1,537
Leasehold improvements | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	3 years
Leasehold improvements | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Depreciable Life (In years)	7 years
Construction-in-progress
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 386	$ 1,551

Leases (Details)

Leases (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Future minimum lease payments under capital leases
2,016	$ 2,163,000
2,017	2,160,000
2,018	2,160,000
2,019	2,070,000
Total	8,553,000
Less amount representing interest (at implicit rates of 9.38% and 3.31% )	(1,430,000)
Present value of net minimum lease payments	7,123,000
Less current maturities	(1,561,000)
Long term obligation	$ 5,562,000
Implicit interest rate, one (as a percent)	9.38%
Implicit interest rate, two (as a percent)	3.31%
Future minimum lease payments under operating leases
2,016	$ 4,205,000
2,017	4,972,000
2,018	5,135,000
2,019	5,122,000
2,020	3,592,000
Thereafter	11,354,000
Total	$ 34,380,000
Leases, additional disclosure
Number of capital lease obligations | item	3
Rent expense under operating leases	$ 4,300,000	$ 4,400,000	$ 3,700,000
Revenue from sale of excess digital network capacity on transponder leased	262,000	$ 262,000	$ 262,000
Parking spaces for the Studio City, California, office
Future minimum lease payments under operating leases
2,016	130,000
2,017	130,000
2,018	130,000
2,019	130,000
2,020	$ 97,000

Debt (Details)

Debt (Details)	Jul. 24, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 25, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 31, 2014USD ($)	Aug. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)item	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Jun. 29, 2015USD ($)item
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Debt transaction costs, net									$ 227,000		$ 805,000	$ 227,000
Interest paid											34,837,000	38,464,000	$ 40,414,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt							$ 18,581,000	$ 3,897,000	2,488,000	$ 1,180,000	$ 22,478,000	$ 3,668,000
2015 Credit Facility | LIBOR
Credit Facility and Term Loan
LIBOR floor (as a percent)											0.00%
2015 Credit Facility | Minimum
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Commitment fees on unused revolving credit commitment (as a percent)											0.25%
2015 Credit Facility | Minimum | LIBOR
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Variable applicable rate (as a percent)											1.50%
2015 Credit Facility | Minimum | Base Rate
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Variable applicable rate (as a percent)											0.50%
2015 Credit Facility | Maximum
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Commitment fees on unused revolving credit commitment (as a percent)											0.40%
2015 Credit Facility | Maximum | LIBOR
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Variable applicable rate (as a percent)											2.25%
2015 Credit Facility | Maximum | Base Rate
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Variable applicable rate (as a percent)											1.25%
2011 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Debt issuance costs				$ 2,700,000
Revolving credit facility | 2015 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 5,000,000									$ 5,000,000
Proceeds from line of credit	$ 25,000,000
Term of debt instrument											5 years
Principal of debt											$ 100,000,000
Debt transaction costs, net											897,000
Interest expense											135,000
Commitment fee expense											137,000
Remaining borrowings											$ 99,100,000
Revolving credit facility | 2011 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Commitment fees on unused revolving credit commitment (as a percent)											0.50%	0.50%	0.50%
Interest expense											$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Commitment fee expense											$ 89,000	151,000	152,000
Outstanding borrowings									0			0
Senior secured term loan facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Debt issuance costs			$ 4,300,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt			18,600,000
Face value of notes repurchased			$ 271,500,000
Principal value of debt redeemed (as a percent)			100.00%
Extinguishment of amount owed			$ 285,800,000
Redemption price (as a percent)			105.25%
Senior secured term loan facility | 2015 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Principal payment on debt		80,000,000
Amount borrowed	$ 245,000,000
Term of debt instrument											5 years
Principal of debt											$ 325,000,000
Additional principal payments required as a percentage of excess cash flow											50.00%
Additional principal payments required as a percentage of net cash proceeds of dispositions or casualty events, if not invested within one year											100.00%
Period of time within which proceeds must be reinvested											1 year
Additional principal payments required as a percentage of net cash proceeds from issuance of debt or Preferred Stock											100.00%
Debt transaction costs, net											$ 2,600,000
Outstanding balance under the Term Loan, net of unamortized discount											322,400,000
Interest paid											1,900,000
Interest expense											$ 3,500,000
Effective interest rate (as a percent)											2.35%
Weighted average nominal interest rate (as a percent)											2.11%
Senior secured term loan facility | 2015 Credit Facility | Consolidated leverage ratio, equal to or less than 3.00 to 1.00 but greater than 2.00 to 1.00
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Additional principal payments required as a percentage of excess cash flow											25.00%
Senior secured term loan facility | 2015 Credit Facility | Consolidated leverage ratio, equal to or less than 3.00 to 1.00 but greater than 2.00 to 1.00 | Minimum
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Consolidated leverage ratio											2
Senior secured term loan facility | 2015 Credit Facility | Consolidated leverage ratio, equal to or less than 3.00 to 1.00 but greater than 2.00 to 1.00 | Maximum
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Consolidated leverage ratio											3
Senior secured term loan facility | 2015 Credit Facility | Consolidated leverage ratio, equal to or less than 2.00 to 1.00
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Additional principal payments required as a percentage of excess cash flow											0.00%
Senior secured term loan facility | 2015 Credit Facility | Consolidated leverage ratio, equal to or less than 2.00 to 1.00 | Maximum
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Consolidated leverage ratio											2
Senior secured term loan facility | 2011 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Principal payment on debt				19,600,000							$ 119,600,000	36,500,000	33,200,000
Debt transaction costs, net									$ 4,300,000			4,300,000
Interest expense											2,700,000	$ 6,600,000	$ 8,800,000
Effective interest rate (as a percent)												5.06%	5.28%
Weighted average nominal interest rate (as a percent)												4.05%	4.54%
Purchase price of notes repurchased				99,600,000				$ 99,600,000			25,000,000
Debt issuance costs				1,200,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt				$ 3,900,000
Outstanding balance under the Term Loan, net of unamortized transaction costs												$ 115,400,000
Letter of Credit | 2015 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 15,000,000									15,000,000
Number of letters of credit outstanding | item														1
Amount of letter of credit outstanding														$ 909,000
Letter of Credit | 2011 Credit Facility
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Number of letters of credit outstanding | item									1			1
Amount of letter of credit outstanding									$ 202,000			$ 202,000
Notes
Credit Facility and Term Loan
Debt transaction costs, net									$ 4,800,000			4,800,000
Interest expense											$ 16,600,000	$ 31,500,000	$ 32,300,000
Effective interest rate (as a percent)											11.00%	11.00%	11.00%
Purchase price of notes repurchased					$ 22,100,000	$ 9,500,000
Debt issuance costs					368,000	160,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt					2,500,000	1,200,000
Face value of notes repurchased					$ 20,000,000	$ 8,500,000
Outstanding balance under the Term Loan, net of unamortized transaction costs												$ 266,700,000

Debt (SvcRqrmnts) (Details)

Debt (SvcRqrmnts) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Aggregate maturities of debt including future interest for each of the five years
Total	$ 354,236,000
Year 1	19,156,000
Year 2	22,922,000
Year 3	28,648,000
Year 4	36,258,000
Year 5	247,252,000
Transaction costs
Debt transaction costs, net	805,000	$ 227,000
Guarantees
Amount of independent assets	0
Amount of independent operations	$ 0
Number of subsidiaries that are not guarantors | item	0
2015 Credit Facility | Revolving credit facility
Transaction costs
Debt transaction costs, net	$ 897,000
2015 Credit Facility | Senior secured term loan facility
Transaction costs
Debt transaction costs, net	$ 2,600,000

Derivatives Instrument and He44

Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities
Interest paid	$ 34,837,000	$ 38,464,000	$ 40,414,000
Interest Rate Swap | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cash Flow Hedging
Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities
Number of agreements | item	1
Notional amount	$ 200,000,000
Fixed interest rate (as a percent)	1.6775%
Interest paid	$ 547,000
Estimated amount to be reclassified to interest expense	$ 1,500,000

Derivatives Instrument and He45

Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities (BalSheet) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Fair Value
Derivative liability	$ 735,000
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Swap
Fair Value
Derivative liability	735,000
Tax benefit on unrealized loss on derivatives	$ 93,000

Derivatives Instrument and He46

Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities (CrRisk) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Credit Risk-Related Contingent Features
Termination value of derivative	$ 735,000
Collateral posted related to the agreement	$ 0

Derivatives Instrument and He47

Derivatives Instrument and Hedging Activities (AOCL) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax	$ (158)
Balance at the end of the period	(158)
Cash Flow Hedging
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications , net of tax	(808)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense, net of tax	650
Unrealized loss on derivatives, net of tax	(158)
Balance at the end of the period	$ (158)

Related Party Transactions (Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) shares in Millions, CAD in Millions	Oct. 31, 2012USD ($)shares	Sep. 02, 2008	Dec. 31, 2015CAD	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)
Related Party Transactions
Payables to Hallmark Cards and affiliates				$ 353,000	$ 150,000
Hallmark Cards
Related Party Transactions
Payment to Hallmark Cards				6,700,000
Canadian dollars purchased from Hallmark Cards | CAD			CAD 8.8
Hallmark Cards | Lease guarantee agreement
Related Party Transactions
Fee agreed to be paid that equals to percentage of outstanding obligation under the lease agreement		0.28%
Hallmark Cards | Federal tax sharing agreement
Related Party Transactions
Ownership transferred by related party (in shares) | shares	40
Maximum percentage of common stock owned by related party	80.00%
Net operating losses	$ 692,000,000
Hallmark Cards | State tax sharing agreement
Related Party Transactions
Amount owed under tax sharing agreement				$ 358,000
Period prior to due date of state tax returns when amount will be payable			2 days	2 days
Hallmark Cards | State tax sharing agreement | 2012
Related Party Transactions
Amount paid						$ 264,000
Hallmark Cards | State tax sharing agreement | 2013
Related Party Transactions
Amount paid					385,000
Hallmark Cards | State tax sharing agreement | 2014
Related Party Transactions
Amount paid				$ 72,000
Hallmark Cards | Services Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Fees for related party services				389,000	342,000	$ 347,000
Hallmark Cards affiliates
Related Party Transactions
Payables to Hallmark Cards and affiliates				353,000	150,000
Amount of taxes paid on behalf of the entity				346,000	$ 150,000
Amount of invoice payment made on behalf of the entity				$ 7,000

Related Party Transactions (Pro

Related Party Transactions (Prog) (Details)	Jul. 28, 2015USD ($)item	Oct. 01, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 12, 2014USD ($)item	Jul. 06, 2013USD ($)item	Jul. 06, 2011USD ($)item	Feb. 29, 2016item	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011USD ($)item	Dec. 31, 2008USD ($)item
Related Party Transactions
Advertising revenue recognized							$ 382,716,000	$ 323,033,000	$ 291,710,000
Programming rights							272,016,000	221,664,000
Trademark licenses
Related Party Transactions
Licenses amount reflected in the condensed consolidated balance sheets							$ 0
Period after which entity will be in default for not complying with the standards							10 days
Period after which entity will be in default for failure to make payment under loan agreement							5 days
Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions, LLC
Related Party Transactions
Number of movies under agreement | item			2
Number of movies premiered under agreement | item			2
Number of movies aired on Hallmark Channel | item							4
Hallmark Hall of Fame Productions, LLC | Exclusive television license
Related Party Transactions
Number of movies under agreement | item										16	58
Number of movies under contemporary Hallmark Hall of Fame titles | item											16
Number of movies under older titles | item											42
Total license fees payable										$ 10,000,000	$ 17,200,000
Period of license of titles		10 years								10 years	10 years
License fee per movie		$ 660,000
Northpole
Related Party Transactions
Programming rights							$ 2,900,000	6,600,000
Northpole II
Related Party Transactions
Programming rights							6,200,000
Licensing revenue							775,000
Hallmark Cards
Related Party Transactions
Number of movies under agreement | item	1			2	6
Period of limited use				7 days	7 days
Term of contract					2 years
Advertising revenue recognized			$ 3,800,000	$ 2,100,000	$ 4,400,000
Amount received under agreement			$ 3,000,000				2,300,000
Amount to be received under agreement	$ 2,300,000
Licensing revenue							$ 0	$ 900,000
Hallmark Cards | Maximum
Related Party Transactions
Number of movies premiered under agreement | item				2
Subsequent events | Hallmark Cards
Related Party Transactions
Number of movies under agreement | item						2

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Operating loss carryforwards
Percentage of loss carryforwards used against AMT income									90.00%	90.00%	90.00%
Current
Federal									$ 2,833,000	$ 2,485,000	$ 2,140,000
State and local									549,000	184,000	424,000
Total									3,382,000	2,669,000	2,564,000
Deferred
Federal									45,899,000	24,796,000	36,865,000
State and local									2,381,000	1,471,000	2,220,000
Total									48,280,000	26,267,000	39,085,000
Total
Federal									48,732,000	27,281,000	39,005,000
State and local									2,930,000	1,655,000	2,644,000
Income tax provision	$ 23,569,000	$ 5,471,000	$ 11,777,000	$ 10,845,000	$ 3,716,000	$ 8,766,000	$ 9,515,000	$ 6,939,000	$ 51,662,000	$ 28,936,000	41,649,000
State | Colorado
Operating loss carryforwards
NOLs suspended in excess of amount											$ 250,000	$ 250,000	$ 250,000

Income Taxes (Rec and Deferred)

Income Taxes (Rec and Deferred) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of the income tax provision at the U.S. statutory rate to the provision
U.S. statutory rate (as a percent)									35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Tax computed at 35%									$ 48,217	$ 43,422	$ 38,277
State taxes, net									2,512	2,424	2,216
Other									593	18	1,131
Change in tax rate applicable to deferred tax assets									36	14	25
Change in state net operation loss deferred tax assets									1,390	5,877
Decrease in valuation allowance									(1,086)	(22,819)
Income tax provision	$ 23,569	$ 5,471	$ 11,777	$ 10,845	$ 3,716	$ 8,766	$ 9,515	$ 6,939	51,662	28,936	41,649
Deferred tax assets:
Bad debt reserve	92				98				92	98
Accrued compensation	4,657				3,712				4,657	3,712
Net operating loss carryforwards	129,637				183,245				129,637	183,245
Depreciation	3,301				3,577				3,301	3,577
Sale of international business and film assets	40				567				40	567
Audience deficiency unit reserve	4,023				2,190				4,023	2,190
Other	93				42				93	42
AMT credit	7,739				4,892				7,739	4,892
Valuation allowance	(2,336)				(3,423)				(2,336)	(3,423)	$ (26,242)	$ (26,242)
Total deferred tax assets	147,246				194,900				147,246	194,900
Deferred tax liabilities:
Other	(1,066)				(532)				(1,066)	(532)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(1,066)				(532)				(1,066)	(532)
Net deferred taxes	$ 146,180				$ 194,368				$ 146,180	$ 194,368

Income Taxes (NOL) (Details)

Income Taxes (NOL) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Operating loss carryforwards
Amount of unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions	$ 0	$ 0
Percentage of loss carryforwards used against AMT income	90.00%	90.00%	90.00%
Increase or decrease in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions	$ 0	$ 0
Accrued interest related to uncertain tax positions	0	0
Deferred tax asset	106,700,000	156,600,000
State
Operating loss carryforwards
Valuation allowance related to NOLs	2,300,000
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Operating loss carryforwards
Net operating losses	$ 305,000,000	$ 447,300,000

Income Taxes (ValAll) (Details)

Income Taxes (ValAll) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets
Balance at Beginning of Year	$ 3,423	$ 26,242	$ 26,242
(Deductions) / Additions	(1,087)	(22,819)	0
Balance at End of Year	$ 2,336	$ 3,423	$ 26,242

Fair Value (Details)

Fair Value (Details) - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value
Transfers between levels	$ 0	$ 0
Carrying Amount | Level 2 | Notes
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable		279,763,000
Fair Value | Level 3
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable	325,500,000	116,000,000
Fair Value | Level 2 | Notes
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable		309,256,000
2011 Term Loan and interest payable | Carrying Amount | Level 3 | Senior secured term loan facility
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable		115,367,000
2011 Term Loan and interest payable | Fair Value | Level 3 | Senior secured term loan facility
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable		$ 115,975,000
2015 Term Loan and interest payable | Carrying Amount | Level 3 | Senior secured term loan facility
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable	323,675,000
2015 Term Loan and interest payable | Fair Value | Level 3 | Senior secured term loan facility
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable	325,500,000
Interest Rate Swap | Carrying Amount | Level 2
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable	735,000
Interest Rate Swap | Fair Value | Level 2
Fair Value
Long-term debt and interest payable	$ 735,000

Employee Benefits (Details)

Employee Benefits (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Benefit Plans
Period allowed to employees to terminate participation in the plan	90 days
Maximum employee contribution as a percentage of pre-tax salary	60.00%
Maximum employee contribution as a percentage of after-tax salary	16.00%
Maximum combined pre-tax and after-tax contributions (as a percent)	60.00%
Discretionary matching contributions	$ 549,000	$ 505,000	$ 432,000

Employee Benefits (LTI) (Detail

Employee Benefits (LTI) (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Feb. 26, 2016	Mar. 06, 2015	Mar. 04, 2015	Mar. 01, 2015	Sep. 05, 2014	Aug. 19, 2014	Mar. 14, 2014	Mar. 01, 2014	Sep. 06, 2013	Aug. 16, 2013	Mar. 01, 2013	Aug. 17, 2012	Mar. 01, 2012	Apr. 25, 2011
Deferred Compensation Plans | Management
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Liability related to agreement included in current and non-current accrued liabilities	$ 2,400,000	$ 2,300,000
Deferred Compensation Plans | Independent director
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Liability related to agreement included in current and non-current accrued liabilities	335,000	340,000
LTI Agreements
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Compensation expense included in selling, general and administrative expense	4,600,000	4,200,000	$ 3,700,000
Liability related to agreement included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$ 8,200,000	$ 5,900,000
LTI Agreements | Minimum
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Incentive award grant as a percentage of employee annual base salary	18.00%	18.00%	18.00%	18.00%
Target award										$ 29,000,000				$ 27,000,000			$ 20,000,000		$ 22,000,000	$ 23,000,000
LTI Agreements | Maximum
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Incentive award grant as a percentage of employee annual base salary	85.00%	85.00%	85.00%	85.00%
Target award										741,000,000				707,000,000			680,000,000		$ 652,000,000	$ 550,000,000
LTI Agreements | Employment Award
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Portion of award in each grant (as a percent)	40.00%	40.00%	40.00%	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Amount settled in cash							$ 1,270,000				$ 1,509,000				$ 1,452,000
LTI Agreements | Performance Award
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Portion of award in each grant (as a percent)	60.00%	60.00%	60.00%	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Period of time for performance award goal	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years
Amount settled in cash							2,385,000	$ 1,938,000					$ 1,551,000
LTI Agreements | Independent director
Long Term Incentive Compensation Agreements
Target award										$ 50,000,000				$ 50,000,000		$ 35,000,000	$ 50,000,000	$ 50,000,000
Amount settled in cash							$ 294,000,000		$ 306,000,000			$ 262,000,000

Commitments and Contingencies57

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies
Unrecorded committed programming rights assets	$ 94.8	$ 132.4
Unrecorded committed programming rights liabilities	$ 94.8	$ 132.4

Commitments and Contingencies58

Commitments and Contingencies (Maturities) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Scheduled Payments of Long-term Debt by Period
Total	$ 354,236
2,016	19,156
2,017	22,922
2,018	28,648
2,019	36,258
2,020	247,252
Scheduled Payments of Capital Lease Obligations by Period
Total	8,553
2,016	2,163
2,017	2,160
2,018	2,160
2,019	2,070
Scheduled Payments of Operating Lease Obligations by Period
Total	34,380
2,016	4,205
2,017	4,972
2,018	5,135
2,019	5,122
2,020	3,592
Thereafter	11,354
Scheduled Payments of Contractual Obligations by Period
Total	625,140
2,016	123,805
2,017	85,500
2,018	74,532
2,019	63,996
2,020	256,607
Thereafter	20,700
Programming rights payable for current and future windows
Commitments and Contingencies
Amount of barter	9,300
Scheduled Payments of Contractual Obligations by Period
Total	217,369
2,016	95,934
2,017	53,576
2,018	37,031
2,019	19,283
2,020	4,704
Thereafter	6,841
Executory contracts
Scheduled Payments of Contractual Obligations by Period
Total	426
2,016	426
Promotion and placement fees
Scheduled Payments of Contractual Obligations by Period
Total	7,413
2,016	1,059
2,017	1,059
2,018	1,059
2,019	1,059
2,020	1,059
Thereafter	2,118
Deferred compensation and interest
Scheduled Payments of Contractual Obligations by Period
Total	2,763
2,016	862
2,017	811
2,018	499
2,019	204
Thereafter	$ 387

Segment Reporting (Details)

Segment Reporting (Details) - segment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting
Number of operating segments	1	1	1

Quarterly Information (Unaudi60

Quarterly Information (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Quarterly Information (Unaudited)
Total revenue	$ 158,760	$ 106,214	$ 113,248	$ 100,512	$ 134,241	$ 93,327	$ 97,353	$ 90,675	$ 478,734	$ 415,596	$ 377,801
Programming costs	(56,564)	(43,458)	(41,411)	(34,758)	(34,164)	(36,800)	(37,471)	(40,161)	(176,191)	(148,596)	(134,000)
Operating costs	(7,207)	(5,730)	(5,482)	(4,585)	(4,551)	(4,199)	(4,215)	(3,568)	(23,004)	(16,533)
Selling, marketing, general and administrative expenses	(29,612)	(20,077)	(21,870)	(22,729)	(27,871)	(17,546)	(20,399)	(17,658)	(94,288)	(83,474)
Income from continuing operations before interest and income tax expense	65,377	36,949	44,485	38,440	67,655	34,782	35,268	29,288	185,251	166,993	151,941
Interest expense	(2,994)	(4,196)	(8,749)	(9,089)	(9,222)	(9,939)	(9,791)	(10,311)	(25,028)	(39,263)
Loss on extinguishment of debt		(18,581)	(3,897)		(2,488)	(1,180)			(22,478)	(3,668)
Income tax provision	(23,569)	(5,471)	(11,777)	(10,845)	(3,716)	(8,766)	(9,515)	(6,939)	(51,662)	(28,936)	(41,649)
Income from continuing operations	38,814	8,701	20,062	18,506	52,229	14,897	15,962	12,038	86,083	95,126	67,715
Loss from sale of discontinued operations	44	(44)			(629)					(629)
Net income	$ 38,858	$ 8,657	$ 20,062	$ 18,506	$ 51,600	$ 14,897	$ 15,962	$ 12,038	$ 86,083	$ 94,497	$ 67,715
Net income per share of common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 0.11	$ 0.02	$ 0.06	$ 0.05	$ 0.14	$ 0.04	$ 0.04	$ 0.03	$ 0.24	$ 0.26