AMC Networks (AMCX) 10-Q 6 Aug 21 2021 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Cover Page

Cover Page - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jul. 30, 2021
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2021
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	1-35106
Entity Registrant Name	AMC Networks Inc.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	27-5403694
Entity Address, Address Line One	11 Penn Plaza,
Entity Address, City or Town	New York,
Entity Address, State or Province	NY
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	10001
City Area Code	212
Local Phone Number	324-8500
Title of 12(b) Security	Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
Trading Symbol	AMCX
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Central Index Key	0001514991
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Amendment Flag	false
Class A Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		30,731,275
Class B Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		11,484,408

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 980,726	$ 888,526
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $10,548 and $11,234)	807,499	813,587
Current portion of program rights, net	18,091	13,480
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	221,846	223,173
Total current assets	2,028,162	1,938,766
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $272,532 and $261,082	221,555	256,045
Program rights, net	1,551,717	1,269,131
Intangible assets, net	395,998	410,672
Goodwill	702,451	686,407
Deferred tax asset, net	15,496	25,046
Operating lease right-of-use asset	122,322	146,522
Other assets	441,808	513,749
Total assets	5,479,509	5,246,338
Current Liabilities:
Accounts payable	100,758	120,530
Accrued liabilities	482,968	320,005
Current portion of program rights obligations	265,058	259,449
Deferred revenue	76,504	71,048
Current portion of long-term debt	16,875	75,000
Current portion of lease obligations	33,203	32,435
Total current liabilities	975,366	878,467
Program rights obligations	220,279	182,511
Long-term debt	2,817,789	2,774,307
Lease obligations	155,397	194,324
Deferred tax liability, net	143,358	132,009
Other liabilities	94,748	125,970
Total liabilities	4,406,937	4,287,588
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	289,030	315,649
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 45,000 shares authorized; none issued	0	0
Paid-in capital	330,593	323,425
Accumulated earnings	1,970,357	1,847,451
Treasury stock, at cost (34,593 and 34,593 shares Class A Common Stock, respectively)	(1,419,882)	(1,419,882)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(148,167)	(134,950)
Total AMC Networks stockholders' equity	733,669	616,805
Non-redeemable noncontrolling interests	49,873	26,296
Total stockholders' equity	783,542	643,101
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	5,479,509	5,246,338
Class A Common Stock
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	653	646
Class B Common Stock
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock	$ 115	$ 115

Condensed Consolidated Balanc_2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts receivable, trade, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 10,548	$ 11,234
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation	$ 272,532	$ 261,082
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	45,000,000	45,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Class A Common Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	360,000,000	360,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	65,324,000	64,568,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	30,731,000	29,975,000
Treasury stock, shares (in shares)	34,593,000	34,593,000
Class B Common Stock
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	90,000,000	90,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	11,484,000	11,484,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	11,484,000	11,484,000

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenues, net	$ 771,392	$ 646,291	$ 1,463,133	$ 1,380,666
Operating expenses:
Technical and operating (excluding depreciation and amortization)	338,841	282,503	619,413	626,563
Selling, general and administrative	198,618	155,163	390,153	339,812
Depreciation and amortization	22,604	25,905	47,850	52,635
Impairment and other charges	142,918	130,411	158,973	130,411
Restructuring and other related charges	155	3,507	8,780	9,473
Total operating expenses	703,136	597,489	1,225,169	1,158,894
Operating income	68,256	48,802	237,964	221,772
Other income (expense):
Interest expense	(31,519)	(34,301)	(66,261)	(71,865)
Interest income	3,008	3,727	5,350	8,282
Loss on extinguishment of debt	0	0	(22,074)	(2,908)
Miscellaneous, net	14,174	8,713	19,580	(21,226)
Total other expense	(14,337)	(21,861)	(63,405)	(87,717)
Income from operations before income taxes	53,919	26,941	174,559	134,055
Income tax expense	(11,321)	(9,707)	(37,236)	(43,295)
Net income including noncontrolling interests	42,598	17,234	137,323	90,760
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(6,713)	(2,273)	(14,417)	(7,132)
Net income attributable to AMC Networks' stockholders	$ 35,885	$ 14,961	$ 122,906	$ 83,628
Net income per share attributable to AMC Networks' stockholders:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.84	$ 0.29	$ 2.91	$ 1.55
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.83	$ 0.28	$ 2.84	$ 1.54
Weighted average common shares:
Basic (in shares)	42,481	52,311	42,207	53,894
Diluted (in shares)	43,382	52,797	43,277	54,429

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income including noncontrolling interests	$ 42,598	$ 17,234	$ 137,323	$ 90,760
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment	7,675	14,190	(14,349)	(14,092)
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps	598	341	1,208	(1,656)
Other comprehensive loss, before income taxes	8,273	14,531	(13,141)	(15,748)
Income tax (expense) benefit	(141)	(79)	(284)	386
Other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes	8,132	14,452	(13,425)	(15,362)
Comprehensive income	50,730	31,686	123,898	75,398
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(6,775)	(2,472)	(14,209)	(6,170)
Comprehensive income attributable to AMC Networks' stockholders	$ 43,955	$ 29,214	$ 109,689	$ 69,228

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Adoption of ASU 2016-13, credit losses	Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Earnings	Accumulated EarningsAdoption of ASU 2016-13, credit losses	Treasury Stock	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	AMC Networks Stockholders’ Equity	AMC Networks Stockholders’ EquityAdoption of ASU 2016-13, credit losses	Noncontrolling Interests	Class A Common StockCommon Stock	Class B Common StockCommon Stock
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2019	$ 691,505	$ (1,956)	$ 286,491	$ 1,609,428	$ (1,956)	$ (1,063,181)	$ (167,711)	$ 665,781	$ (1,956)	$ 25,724	$ 639	$ 115
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income attributable to AMC Networks’ stockholders	83,628			83,628				83,628
Net income attributable to non-redeemable noncontrolling interests	(1,085)									(1,085)
Distributions to noncontrolling member	(448)									(448)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(15,362)						(14,400)	(14,400)		(962)
Share-based compensation expense	30,747		30,747					30,747
Treasury stock acquired	(102,938)					(102,938)		(102,938)
Restricted stock units converted to shares	(8,946)		(8,950)					(8,946)			4
Ending Balance at Jun. 30, 2020	675,145		308,288	1,691,100		(1,166,119)	(182,111)	651,916		23,229	643	115
Beginning Balance at Mar. 31, 2020	637,396		282,153	1,676,139		(1,149,138)	(196,364)	613,548		23,848	643	115
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income attributable to AMC Networks’ stockholders	14,961			14,961				14,961
Net income attributable to non-redeemable noncontrolling interests	(818)									(818)
Settlement of treasury stock	10,988		10,988					10,988
Other comprehensive income (loss)	14,452						14,253	14,253		199
Share-based compensation expense	15,235		15,235					15,235
Treasury stock acquired	(16,981)					(16,981)		(16,981)
Restricted stock units converted to shares	(88)		(88)					(88)			0
Ending Balance at Jun. 30, 2020	675,145		308,288	1,691,100		(1,166,119)	(182,111)	651,916		23,229	643	115
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2020	643,101		323,425	1,847,451		(1,419,882)	(134,950)	616,805		26,296	646	115
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income attributable to AMC Networks’ stockholders	122,906			122,906				122,906
Net income attributable to non-redeemable noncontrolling interests	4,278									4,278
Transfer from redeemable noncontrolling interests	18,367									18,367
Contribution from noncontrolling member	1,140									1,140
Distributions to noncontrolling member	(1,441)									(1,441)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(13,425)						(13,217)	(13,217)		(208)
Share-based compensation expense	29,708		29,708					29,708
Proceeds from the exercise of stock options	12,100		12,100					12,100
Restricted stock units converted to shares	(34,633)		(34,640)					(34,633)		0	7
Ending Balance at Jun. 30, 2021	783,542		330,593	1,970,357		(1,419,882)	(148,167)	733,669		49,873	653	115
Beginning Balance at Mar. 31, 2021	721,561		314,331	1,934,472		(1,419,882)	(156,237)	673,452		48,109	653	115
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income attributable to AMC Networks’ stockholders	35,885			35,885				35,885
Net income attributable to non-redeemable noncontrolling interests	3,143									3,143
Other comprehensive income (loss)	8,132						8,070	8,070		62
Share-based compensation expense	16,262		16,262					16,262
Ending Balance at Jun. 30, 2021	$ 783,542		$ 330,593	$ 1,970,357		$ (1,419,882)	$ (148,167)	$ 733,669		$ 49,873	$ 653	$ 115

Condensed Consolidated Statem_4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income including noncontrolling interests	$ 137,323	$ 90,760
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	47,850	52,635
Impairment and other charges	158,973	130,411
Share-based compensation expense related to equity classified awards	29,709	30,747
Non-cash restructuring and other related charges	4,329	6,126
Amortization and write-off of program rights	333,348	415,255
Amortization of deferred carriage fees	7,633	13,749
Unrealized foreign currency transaction (gain) loss	(10,609)	13,941
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts on indebtedness	3,923	4,088
Loss on extinguishment of debt	22,074	2,908
Bad debt expense	3,530	1,744
Deferred income taxes	16,487	10,437
Gain on investments	(4,554)	(13,958)
Write-down of non-marketable equity securities and note receivable	0	20,000
Other, net	(7,776)	(1,985)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable, trade (including amounts due from related parties, net)	7,913	55,365
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(18,233)	45,953
Program rights and obligations, net	(583,480)	(387,027)
Income taxes payable	(5,472)	256
Deferred revenue	1,203	(5,086)
Deferred carriage fees, net	(27,861)	(15,995)
Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other liabilities	14,857	(45,412)
Net cash provided by operating activities	131,167	424,912
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(18,849)	(22,172)
Return of capital from investees	0	924
Payments for acquisition of a business, net of cash acquired	(19,072)	0
Acquisition of investment securities	(28,397)	(1,250)
Cash paid on distribution of business	(7,052)	0
Principal payment received on loan to investee	20,000	2,500
Proceeds from sale of investments	95,370	10,000
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	42,000	(9,998)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt	984,500	6,000
Principal payments on long-term debt	(1,015,000)	(218,750)
Deemed repurchases of restricted stock units	(34,632)	(8,946)
Purchase of treasury stock	0	(102,938)
Proceeds from stock option exercises	12,100	0
Principal payments on finance lease obligations	(1,984)	(1,575)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests	2,702	0
Distributions to noncontrolling interests	(11,912)	(10,607)
Net cash used in financing activities	(64,226)	(336,816)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	108,941	78,098
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(16,741)	(4,381)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	888,526	816,170
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$ 980,726	$ 889,887

Description of Business and Bas

Description of Business and Basis of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business and Basis of Presentation	Description of Business and Basis of Presentation Description of Business AMC Networks Inc. ("AMC Networks") and its subsidiaries (collectively referred to as the "Company," "we," "us," or "our") own and operate entertainment businesses and assets. Segment Reporting Changes In the first quarter of 2021, the Company changed its presentation of operating segments, reflecting a reorganized operating structure focused on a multi-platform distribution approach to content monetization. The Company's streaming services and IFC Films, previously included in the International and Other segment, are now included within Domestic Operations (formerly referred to as the National Networks segment). In addition, certain corporate overhead costs will no longer be allocated to the operating segments. Operating segment information for the prior periods has been recast to reflect these changes. The new reporting structure consists of the following two operating segments: • Domestic Operations: Includes activities of our five national programming networks, our streaming services, AMC Studios operation, IFC Films and AMC Broadcasting & Technology. Our national programming networks are AMC, WE tv, BBC AMERICA, IFC, and SundanceTV. Our streaming services consist of our targeted subscription streaming services (Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, and ALLBLK), AMC+ and other streaming initiatives. Our AMC Studios operation produces original programming for our programming networks and also licenses such programming worldwide. IFC Films is our film distribution business and AMC Networks Broadcasting & Technology is our technical services business, which primarily services most of the national programming networks. • International and Other : Includes AMC Networks International ("AMCNI"), our international programming businesses consisting of a portfolio of channels around the world and 25/7 Media (formerly Levity), our production services business. See Note 4 relating to the spin-off of the Levity comedy venues business. Basis of Presentation Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of AMC Networks and its subsidiaries in which a controlling voting interest is maintained or variable interest entities ("VIEs") in which the Company has determined it is the primary beneficiary. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. Investments in business entities in which the Company lacks control but does have the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Unaudited Interim Financial Statements These condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information and Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2020 contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K ("2020 Form 10-K") filed with the SEC. The condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, such financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting solely of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that might be expected for future interim periods or for the full year ending December 31, 2021. Risks and Uncertainties The Company continues to monitor the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on all aspects of its business. The Company cannot reasonably predict the ultimate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the extent of any adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition, which will depend on, among other things, the duration and spread of the pandemic, the impact of governmental regulations that have been, and may continue to be, imposed in response to the pandemic, the effectiveness of actions taken to contain or mitigate the outbreak, the availability, safety and efficacy of vaccines, and global economic conditions. The Company does not expect the COVID-19 pandemic and its related economic impact to affect its liquidity position or its ongoing ability to meet the covenants in its debt instruments. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements; and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates and judgments inherent in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the useful lives and methodologies used to amortize and assess recoverability of program rights, the estimated useful lives of intangible assets and the valuation and recoverability of goodwill and intangible assets. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Effective January 1, 2021, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes . ASU 2019-12 removes certain exceptions to the general principles in Topic 740 - Income Taxes. The adoption of the standard did not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition Transaction Price Allocated to Future Performance Obligations As of June 30, 2021, other than contracts for which the Company has applied the practical expedients, the aggregate amount of transaction price allocated to future performance obligations was not material to our consolidated revenues. Contract Balances from Contracts with Customers The following table provides information about receivables, contract assets, and contract liabilities from contracts with customers. (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Balances from contracts with customers: Accounts receivable (including long-term, included in Other assets) $ 1,030,795 $ 1,081,070 Contract assets, short-term (included in Other current assets) 8,701 9,830 Contract assets, long-term (included in Other assets) 942 942 Contract liabilities (Deferred revenue) 76,504 71,048 Revenue recognized for the six months ended June 30, 2021 relating to the contract liability at December 31, 2020 was $17.7 million.

Net Income per Share

Net Income per Share	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income per Share	Net Income per Share The following is a reconciliation between basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding: (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Basic weighted average common shares outstanding 42,481 52,311 42,207 53,894 Effect of dilution: Stock options — — 6 — Restricted stock units 901 486 1,064 535 Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding 43,382 52,797 43,277 54,429 Approximately 0.5 million and 1.2 million restricted stock units outstanding as of June 30, 2021 and June 30, 2020, respectively, have been excluded from diluted weighted average common shares outstanding since a performance condition for these awards had not been met in each of the respective periods. As of June 30, 2021 and June 30, 2020, 0.3 million and 0.7 million, respectively, of restricted stock units and stock options have been excluded from diluted weighted average common shares outstanding, as their impact would have been anti-dilutive. Stock Repurchase Program The Company's Board of Directors has authorized a program to repurchase up to $1.5 billion of its outstanding shares of common stock (the "Stock Repurchase Program"). The Stock Repurchase Program has no pre-established closing date and may be suspended or discontinued at any time. For the six months ended June 30, 2021, the Company did not repurchase any shares of its Class A Common Stock. As of June 30, 2021, the Company had $135.3 million of authorization remaining for repurchase under the Stock Repurchase Program.

Impairment and Other Charges

Impairment and Other Charges	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract]
Impairment and Other Charges	Impairment and Other Charges On July 16, 2021, the Company entered into a settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) with Frank Darabont, Ferenc, Inc., Darkwoods Productions, Inc., and Creative Artists Agency, LLC (together, the "Plaintiffs") in actions brought in connection with Frank Darabont’s rendering services as a writer, director and producer of the television series entitled The Walking Dead . The consolidated cases were initially brought in 2013 and 2018 and the trial of the consolidated cases was scheduled to commence on April 4, 2022. The Settlement Agreement provides for a cash payment of $200 million (the “Settlement Payment”) to the Plaintiffs and future revenue sharing related to certain future streaming exhibition of The Walking Dead and Fear The Walking Dead . With regard to the Settlement Payment, the Company recorded a charge of $143.0 million, included in Impairment and other charges in consideration for the extinguishment of Plaintiffs’ rights to any compensation in connection with The Walking Dead and any related programs and the dismissal of the actions with prejudice, which amount is net of $57.0 million of ordinary c ourse accrued participations. In March 2021, the Company completed a spin-off of the live comedy venue and talent management businesses ("LiveCo") of Levity Entertainment Group, LLC. In connection with the transaction, the Company effectively exchanged all of its rights and interests in LiveCo for the release of the Company's obligations, principally related to leases. As a result of this divestiture, the Company recognized a loss on the disposal of $16.1 million reflecting the net assets transferred (consisting of property and equipment, lease right-of-use assets and intangibles, partially offset by lease and other obligations), which is included in Impairment and other charges. The Company retained its interest in the production services business of Levity Entertainment Group, LLC, which was renamed 25/7 Media Holdings, LLC following the spin-off.

Restructuring and Other Related

Restructuring and Other Related Charges	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Restructuring and Other Related Charges	Restructuring and Other Related Charges Restructuring and other related charges of $0.2 million and $8.8 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, consisted of $0.2 million and $4.3 million of severance costs associated with the restructuring plan announced in November 2020 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, and $4.5 million at AMCNI related to the termination of distribution in certain international territories, for the six months ended June 30, 2021. Restructuring and other related charges of $3.5 million and $9.5 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, respectively, related to restructuring costs associated with termination of distribution in certain territories as well as severance and other personnel related costs associated with previously announced restructuring activities. The following table summarizes the restructuring and other related charges recognized by operating segment: (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Domestic Operations $ 216 $ 1,204 $ 2,643 $ 2,686 International & Other (17) 2,262 4,473 6,239 Corporate / Inter-segment eliminations (44) 41 1,664 548 Total restructuring and other related charges $ 155 $ 3,507 $ 8,780 $ 9,473 The following table summarizes the accrued restructuring costs: (In thousands) Severance and employee-related costs Other exit costs Total December 31, 2020 $ 25,571 $ 31 $ 25,602 Charges 4,323 4,457 8,780 Cash payments (26,398) — (26,398) Non-cash adjustments — (4,457) (4,457) Other 64 — 64 Balance, June 30, 2021 $ 3,560 $ 31 $ 3,591 Accrued restructuring costs of $3.6 million are included in accrued liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheet at June 30, 2021.

Program Rights

Program Rights	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Entertainment [Abstract]
Program Rights	Program Rights Total capitalized produced and licensed content by predominant monetization strategy is as follows: June 30, 2021 (In thousands) Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Owned original program rights, net: Completed $ 280,754 $ 29,279 $ 310,033 In-production and in-development 329,903 11,248 341,151 Total owned original program rights, net $ 610,657 $ 40,527 $ 651,184 Licensed program rights, net: Licensed film and acquired series $ 11,520 $ 581,864 $ 593,384 Licensed originals 194,520 — 194,520 Advances and content versioning costs — 130,720 130,720 Total licensed program rights, net 206,040 712,584 918,624 Program rights, net $ 816,697 $ 753,111 $ 1,569,808 Current portion of program rights, net $ 18,091 Program rights, net (long-term) 1,551,717 $ 1,569,808 Amortization, including write-offs, of owned and licensed program rights is as follows: Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 (In thousands) Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Owned original program rights $ 50,921 $ 7,571 $ 58,492 $ 84,827 $ 12,137 $ 96,964 Licensed program rights 20,865 103,004 123,869 45,885 190,499 236,384 Program rights amortization $ 71,786 $ 110,575 $ 182,361 $ 130,712 $ 202,636 $ 333,348 Three Months Ended June 30, 2020 Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (In thousands) Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Owned original program rights $ 62,229 $ 9,458 $ 71,687 $ 161,271 $ 15,977 $ 177,248 Licensed program rights 19,910 99,678 119,588 41,262 196,745 238,007 Program rights amortization $ 82,139 $ 109,136 $ 191,275 $ 202,533 $ 212,722 $ 415,255 The Company periodically reviews the programming usefulness of its licensed and owned original program rights based on several factors, including expected future revenue generation from airings on the Company's networks and other exploitation opportunities, ratings, type and quality of program material, standards and practices, and fitness for exhibition through various forms of distribution. If it is determined that film or other program rights have limited, or no, future programming usefulness, the useful life is updated, which generally results in a write-off of the unamortized cost to technical and operating expense in the consolidated statemen ts of income. There were no program rights write-offs included in technical and operating expense f or the three and six months ended June 30, 2021. Program rights write-offs included in technical and operating expense were $7.9 million and $12.1 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, respectively.

Investments

Investments	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	Investments The Company holds several investments and loans in non-consolidated entities which are included in Other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheet. Equity method investments were $90.7 million at June 30, 2021 and $69.5 million at December 31, 2020. In February 2021, the Company invested $27.4 million for an interest in a Toronto-based production company and studio, which is accounted for as an equity method investment. In June 2021, the Company paid $23.8 million to acquire the remaining 50% interest in an equity method investment in which it previously owned a 50% interest. In connection with the acquisition, the Company recorded a gain of $12.3 million, included in miscellaneous, net in the condensed consolidated income statement related to the step-up to fair value of its previously held interest. Marketable Equity Securities The Company classifies publicly traded investments with readily determinable fair values that are not accounted for under the equity method as marketable equity securities. Marketable equity securities are recorded at cost and adjusted to fair value at each reporting period. The changes in fair value between measurement dates are recorded in miscellaneous, net in the condensed consolidated statement of income. Investments in marketable equity securities were $9.0 million at June 30, 2021 and $62.4 million at December 31, 2020. In January 2021, the Company sold the remaining portion of one of its marketable securities with a carrying value of $51.0 million as of December 31, 2020, r esulting in a realized loss of $5.4 million. There were $2.4 million unrealized losses on marketable equity securities for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 included in miscellaneous, net in the condensed consolidated statement of income. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, unrealized losses on marketable equity securities were $15.0 million and $14.0 million, respectively, included in miscellaneous, net in the condensed consolidated statement of income. Non-marketable Equity Securities The Company classifies investments without readily determinable fair values that are not accounted for under the equity method as non-marketable equity securities. The accounting guidance requires non-marketable equity securities to be recorded at cost and adjusted to fair value at each reporting period. However, the guidance allows for a measurement alternative, which is to record the investments at cost, less impairment, if any, and subsequently adjust for observable price changes of identical or similar investments of the same issuer. The Company applies this measurement alternative to its non-marketable equity securities. When an observable event occurs, the Company estimates the fair values of its non-marketable equity securities based on Level 2 inputs that are derived from observable price changes of similar securities adjusted for insignificant differences in rights and obligations. The changes in value are recorded in miscellaneous, net in the condensed consolidated statement of income. Investments in non-marketable equity securities were $36.9 million a

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The carrying amount of goodwill, by operating segment is as follows: (In thousands) Domestic Operations International Total December 31, 2020 $ 333,502 $ 352,905 $ 686,407 Goodwill written off related to spin-off of a business unit — (476) (476) Additions — 18,260 18,260 Amortization of "second component" goodwill (672) — (672) Foreign currency translation — (1,068) (1,068) June 30, 2021 $ 332,830 $ 369,621 $ 702,451 As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, accumulated impairment charges in the International and Other segment totaled $123.1 million . The reduction of $0.7 million in the carrying amount of goodwill for Domestic Operations is due to the realization of a tax benefit for the amortization of "second component" goodwill at SundanceTV. Second component goodwill is the amount of tax deductible goodwill in excess of goodwill for financial reporting purposes. In accordance with the authoritative guidance at the time of the SundanceTV acquisition, the tax benefits associated with this excess are applied to first reduce the amount of goodwill, and then other intangible assets for financial reporting purposes, if and when such tax benefits are realized in the Company's tax returns. The addition of $18.3 million in the carrying amount of goodwill in International and Other relates to the acquisition of the remaining 50% interest in an equity method investment in which the Company previously owned a 50% interest. The allocation of goodwill is preliminary and is based on current estimates and currently available information, and is subject to revision based final allocations of the purchase price to the identifiable assets and liabilities acquired. The following tables summarize information relating to the Company's identifiable intangible assets: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Estimated Useful Lives Amortizable intangible assets: Affiliate and customer relationships $ 622,517 $ (343,335) $ 279,182 6 to 25 years Advertiser relationships 46,282 (28,132) 18,150 11 years Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets 119,856 (41,090) 78,766 3 to 20 years Total amortizable intangible assets 788,655 (412,557) 376,098 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 19,900 — 19,900 Total intangible assets $ 808,555 $ (412,557) $ 395,998 (In thousands) December 31, 2020 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Amortizable intangible assets: Affiliate and customer relationships $ 624,699 $ (330,350) $ 294,349 Advertiser relationships 46,282 (26,028) 20,254 Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets 116,526 (40,357) 76,169 Total amortizable intangible assets 787,507 (396,735) 390,772 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 19,900 — 19,900 Total intangible assets $ 807,407 $ (396,735) $ 410,672 Aggregate amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 was $18.9 million and $23.1 million, respectively. Estimated aggregate amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization for each of the following five years is: (In thousands) Years Ending December 31, 2021 $ 38,970 2022 40,147 2023 40,059 2024 39,990 2025 38,183

Accrued Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accrued Liabilities	Accrued Liabilities Accrued liabilities consist of the following: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Employee related costs 78,613 $ 98,661 Participations and residuals 130,649 106,785 Interest 37,936 29,345 Settlement Payment 200,000 — Other accrued expenses 35,770 85,214 Total accrued liabilities $ 482,968 $ 320,005 With regard to the Settlement Payment, the Company has taken a charge of approximately $143 million in the quarter ended June 30, 2021 in consideration for the settlement of certain litigation (see Note 15, Commitments and Contingencies), which amount is net of approximately $57 million of ordinary course accrued participations, including amounts previously recorded in Other liabilities (long-term).

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-term Debt	Long-term Debt The Company's long-term debt consists of the following: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Senior Secured Credit Facility: (a) Term Loan A Facility $ 675,000 $ 675,000 Senior Notes: 4.75% Notes due December 2022 — 400,000 5.00% Notes due April 2024 400,000 1,000,000 4.75% Notes due August 2025 800,000 800,000 4.25% Notes due February 2029 1,000,000 — Total long-term debt 2,875,000 2,875,000 Unamortized discount (25,321) (18,337) Unamortized deferred financing costs (15,015) (7,356) Long-term debt, net 2,834,664 2,849,307 Current portion of long-term debt 16,875 75,000 Noncurrent portion of long-term debt $ 2,817,789 $ 2,774,307 (a) The Company's $500 million revolving credit facility remains undrawn at June 30, 2021. Total undrawn revolver commitments are available to be drawn for general corporate purposes of the Company. Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement On February 8, 2021, AMC Networks entered into Amendment No. 1 (“Amendment No. 1”) to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 28, 2017 (as amended by Amendment No. 1, the "Credit Agreement"), among AMC Networks and its subsidiary, AMC Network Entertainment LLC, as the Initial Borrowers, certain of AMC Networks' subsidiaries, as restricted subsidiaries, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and L/C Issuer, Bank of America, as an L/C Issuer, and the lenders party thereto. Amendment No. 1 extends the maturity dates of the $675 million term loan A facility and $500 million revolving credit facility under the Credit Agreement to February 8, 2026, and makes certain other amendments to the covenants and other provisions of the Credit Agreement. Senior Notes

Leases

Leases	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases The following table summarizes the leases included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as follows: (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Assets Operating Operating lease right-of-use asset $ 122,322 $ 146,522 Finance Property and equipment, net 12,630 13,179 Total lease assets $ 134,952 $ 159,701 Liabilities Current: Operating Current portion of lease obligations $ 29,671 $ 28,813 Finance Current portion of lease obligations 3,532 3,622 $ 33,203 $ 32,435 Noncurrent: Operating Lease obligations $ 129,658 166,452 Finance Lease obligations 25,739 27,872 155,397 $ 194,324 Total lease liabilities $ 188,600 $ 226,759
Leases	Leases The following table summarizes the leases included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as follows: (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Assets Operating Operating lease right-of-use asset $ 122,322 $ 146,522 Finance Property and equipment, net 12,630 13,179 Total lease assets $ 134,952 $ 159,701 Liabilities Current: Operating Current portion of lease obligations $ 29,671 $ 28,813 Finance Current portion of lease obligations 3,532 3,622 $ 33,203 $ 32,435 Noncurrent: Operating Lease obligations $ 129,658 166,452 Finance Lease obligations 25,739 27,872 155,397 $ 194,324 Total lease liabilities $ 188,600 $ 226,759

Fair Value Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity's pricing based upon their own market assumptions. The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels: • Level I - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets. • Level II - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable. • Level III - Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable. The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020: (In thousands) Level I Level II Level III Total At June 30, 2021: Assets Cash equivalents $ 140,037 $ — $ — $ 140,037 Marketable securities 9,019 — — 9,019 Foreign currency derivatives — 473 — 473 Liabilities Interest rate swap contracts $ — $ 1,195 $ — $ 1,195 Foreign currency derivatives — 2,948 — 2,948 At December 31, 2020: Assets Cash equivalents $ 107,494 $ — $ — $ 107,494 Marketable securities 62,442 — — 62,442 Foreign currency derivatives — 667 — 667 Liabilities Interest rate swap contracts $ — $ 2,403 $ — $ 2,403 Foreign currency derivatives — 3,515 — 3,515 The Company's cash equivalents and marketable securities are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices. The Company's interest rate swap contracts and foreign currency derivatives are classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy as their fair values are determined based on a market approach valuation technique that uses readily observable market parameters and the consideration of counterparty risk. At June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company did not have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis that would be considered Level III. Fair value measurements are also used in nonrecurring valuations performed in connection with acquisition accounting and impairment testing. These nonrecurring valuations primarily include the valuation of intangible assets and property and equipment. All of our nonrecurring valuations use significant unobservable inputs and therefore fall under Level III of the fair value hierarchy. Credit Facility Debt and Senior Notes The fair values of each of the Company's debt instruments are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for instruments of the same remaining maturities. The carrying values and estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 Carrying Estimated Debt instruments: Term loan A facility $ 663,245 $ 669,938 5.00% Notes due April 2024 397,210 404,500 4.75% Notes due August 2025 791,097 821,000 4.25% Notes due February 2029 983,112 1,006,250 $ 2,834,664 $ 2,901,688 (In thousands) December 31, 2020 Carrying Estimated Debt instruments: Term loan A facility $ 669,878 $ 665,719 4.75% Notes due December 2022 398,230 400,500 5.00% Notes due April 2024 991,074 1,015,000 4.75% Notes due August 2025 790,125 826,160 $ 2,849,307 $ 2,907,379 Fair value estimates related to the Company's debt instruments presented above are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments Interest Rate Risk To manage interest rate risk, the Company enters into interest rate swap contracts to adjust the amount of total debt that is subject to variable interest rates. As of June 30, 2021, the Company had interest rate swap contracts outstanding with notional amounts aggregating $100.0 million that are designated as hedging instruments. The Company's outstanding interest rate swap contracts mature in December 2021. Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk We are exposed to foreign currency risk to the extent that we enter into transactions denominated in currencies other than our or our subsidiaries' respective functional currencies (non-functional currency risk), such as affiliation agreements, programming contracts, certain accounts payable and trade receivables (including intercompany amounts) that are denominated in a currency other than the applicable functional currency. The fair values of the Company's derivative financial instruments included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets are as follows: (In thousands) Balance Sheet June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Liabilities: Interest rate swap contracts Accrued liabilities $ 1,195 $ 2,403 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Assets: Foreign currency derivatives Prepaid expenses and other current assets $ 197 $ 300 Foreign currency derivatives Other assets 276 367 Liabilities: Foreign currency derivatives Accrued liabilities $ 1,052 $ 1,084 Foreign currency derivatives Other liabilities 1,896 2,431 The amounts of gains and losses related to the Company's derivative financial instruments designated as hedging instruments are as follows: (In thousands) Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives Location of Gain or (Loss) in Earnings Gain or (Loss) Reclassified Three Months Ended June 30, Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships: Interest rate swap contracts $ (21) $ (176) Interest expense $ 619 $ 517 (In thousands) Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives Location of Gain or (Loss) in Earnings Gain or (Loss) Reclassified Six Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships: Interest rate swap contracts $ (17) $ (2,410) Interest expense $ 1,225 $ 754 The amounts of gains and losses related to the Company's derivative financial instruments not designated as hedging instruments are as follows: (In thousands) Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Foreign currency derivatives Miscellaneous, net $ (149) $ (1,126) $ (95) $ (718)

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income TaxesFor the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, income tax expense was $11.3 million and $37.2 million, respectively, representing an effective tax rate of 21% for both periods. The items resulting in variances from the federal statutory rate of 21% for the three months ended June 30, 2021 primarily consist of state and local income tax expense and tax expense for an increase in valuation allowances for foreign taxes and U.S. foreign tax, partially offset by a tax benefit from foreign operations. The items resulting in variances from the federal statutory rate of 21% for the six months ended June 30, 2021 primarily consist of a discrete tax benefit for excess tax benefits related to stock compensation, partially offset by state and local income tax expense. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, income tax expense was $9.7 million and $43.3 million, respectively, representing an effective tax rate of 36% and 32%, respectively, as compared to the federal statutory rate of 21%. The effective tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate for both periods due primarily to tax expense from foreign operations, state and local income tax expense and tax expense resulting from an increase in valuation allowances for foreign taxes and U.S. foreign tax credits, partially offset by a discrete tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions (including accrued interest) and a tax benefit related to a foreign-derived intangible income deduction. The discrete tax benefit relating to uncertain tax positions is primarily due to audit settlements and the filing of state income tax returns under voluntary disclosure agreements. At June 30, 2021, the Company had foreign tax credit carry forwards of approximately $33.5 million, expiring on various dates from 2022 through 2031. These carryforwards have been reduced by a valuation allowance of $33.5 million as it is more likely than not that these carry forwards will not be realized. For the six months ended June 30, 2021, $0.5 million relating to amortization of tax deductible second component goodwill was realized as a reduction in tax liability (as determined on a 'with-and-without' approach).

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Commitments As of June 30, 2021, the Company's contractual obligations not reflected on the Company's condensed consolidated balance sheet increased $92.0 million, as compared to December 31, 2020, to $1,103.9 million. The increase primarily relates to additional commitments for program rights. Legal Matters On December 17, 2013, Frank Darabont ("Darabont"), Ferenc, Inc., Darkwoods Productions, Inc., and Creative Artists Agency, LLC (together, the "Plaintiffs"), filed a complaint in New York Supreme Court in connection with Darabont's rendering services as a writer, director and producer of the television series entitled The Walking Dead and the agreement between the parties related thereto. Plaintiffs asserted claims for breach of contract, breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, for an accounting and for declaratory relief. On January 18, 2018, Plaintiffs filed a second action in New York Supreme Court in connection with Darabont’s services on The Walking Dead television series and agreements between the parties related thereto. Plaintiffs asserted claims for breach of contract, breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, and declaratory relief. The two actions were consolidated for a joint trial, scheduled to begin on April 4, 2022. On July 16, 2021, the parties entered into a settlement agreement (the “Settlement Agreement”) to resolve the consolidated actions. The Settlement Agreement provides for a cash payment of $200 million (the “Settlement Payment”) to the plaintiffs and future revenue sharing related to certain future streaming exhibition of The Walking Dead and Fear The Walking Dead. With regard to the Settlement Payment, the Company has taken a charge of approximately $143 million in the quarter ended June 30, 2021 in consideration for the extinguishment of Plaintiffs’ rights to any compensation in connection with The Walking Dead and any related programs and the dismissal of the actions with prejudice, which amount is net of approximately $57 million of ordinary course accrued participations. The Settlement Agreement also includes customary provisions included in such agreements, including providing for mutual releases, covenants not to sue, waivers, confidentiality, non-disparagement and indemnification for third party claims. On July 21, 2021, the Plaintiffs filed a stipulation to discontinue the consolidated actions, with prejudice. On August 14, 2017, Robert Kirkman, Robert Kirkman, LLC, Glen Mazzara, 44 Strong Productions, Inc., David Alpert, Circle of Confusion Productions, LLC, New Circle of Confusion Productions, Inc., Gale Anne Hurd, and Valhalla Entertainment, Inc. f/k/a Valhalla Motion Pictures, Inc. (together, the "California Plaintiffs") filed a complaint in California Superior Court in connection with California Plaintiffs’ rendering of services as writers and producers of the television series entitled The Walking Dead, as well as Fear the Walking Dead and/or Talking Dead, and the agreements between the parties related thereto (the "California Action"). The California Plaintiffs asserted that the Company has been improperly underpaying the California Plaintiffs under their contracts with the Company and they assert claims for breach of contract, breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, inducing breach of contract, and liability for violation of Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200. The California Plaintiffs seek compensatory and punitive damages and restitution. On August 8, 2019, the judge in the California Action ordered a trial to resolve certain issues of contract interpretation only. Following eight days of trial in February and March 2020, on July 22, 2020, the judge issued a Statement of Decision finding in the Company's favor on all seven matters of contract interpretation before the court in this first phase trial. On January 20, 2021, the California Plaintiffs filed a second amended complaint, eliminating eight named defendants and their claims under Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200. On May 5, 2021, the California Plaintiffs filed a third amended complaint, repleading in part their claims for alleged breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing, inducing breach of contract, and certain breach of contract claims. On June 2, 2021, the Company filed a demurrer and motion to strike seeking to dismiss the claim for breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing and certain tort and breach of contract claims asserted in the third amended complaint. On July 27, 2021 the court granted in part and denied in part the Company's motion. On June 9, 2021, the judge in the California Action set a tentative trial date of November 1, 2021 with regard to claims not addressed in the first phase trial. The November 1, 2021 trial date is subject to the availability of the Company’s trial counsel, with a back-up date of May 9, 2022 if it is determined that the trial cannot proceed on November 1, 2021. The parties have resumed discovery in preparation for the November 1, 2021 trial. The Company believes that the remaining asserted claims are without merit and will vigorously defend against them. At this time, no determination can be made as to the ultimate outcome of this litigation or the potential liability, if any, on the part of the Company. The Company is party to various lawsuits and claims in the ordinary course of business, including the matters described above. Although the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty and while the impact of these matters on the Company's results of operations in any particular subsequent reporting period could be material, management does not believe that the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.

Equity Plans

Equity Plans	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Equity Plans	Equity Plans In June 2021, AMC Networks granted 29,916 restricted stock units ("RSUs") under the 2011 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors to non-employee directors that vested on the date of grant. In March 2021, AMC Networks granted 535,278 RSUs to certain executive officers and employees under the AMC Networks Inc. Amended and Restated 2016 Employee Stock Plan. The RSUs vest ratably over a three-year period and the vesting criteria for 178,764 RSUs include the achievement of certain performance targets by the Company. During the six months ended June 30, 2021, 617,051 RSUs and 368,296 performance restricted stock units (PRSUs) of AMC Networks Class A Common Stock previously issued to employees of the Company vested. On the vesting dat e, 263,671 RSUs and 168,712 PRSUs were surrendered to the Company to cover the required statutory tax withholding obligations an d 353,380 RSU and 199,584 PRS U new shares of AMC Networks Class A Common Stock were issued. The units surrendered to satisfy the employees' statutory minimu m tax withholding obligations for the applicable income and other employment tax had an aggregate value of $34.6 million, which has been reflected as a financing activity in the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 2021. Share-based compensation expense included in selling, general and administrative expense was $16.3 million and $29.7 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively and $15.2 million and $30.7 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, respectively. As of June 30, 2021, there was $47.4 million of total unrecognized share-based compensation cost related to outstanding unvested share-based awards. The unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average remaining period of approximately 1.9 years.

Redeemable Noncontrolling Inter

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests	Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests The following table summarizes activity related to redeemable noncontrolling interest for the six months ended June 30, 2021. (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 $ 315,649 Net earnings 10,139 Distributions (10,351) Distribution related to spin-off transaction (8,040) Transfer to noncontrolling interest (18,367) June 30, 2021 $ 289,030 In connection with the spin-off of the live comedy venue and talent management businesses of Levity Entertainment Group, LLC (see Note 4), $8.0 million of redeemable noncontrolling interests was distributed to the noncontrolling partners. In addition, as part of the transaction, the preexisting put rights of the noncontrolling interest holders were terminated.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions The Company and its related parties routinely enter into transactions with each other in the ordinary course of business. Revenues, net from related parties amounted to $1.3 million and $1.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $2.5 million and $2.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Amounts charged to the Company, included in selling, general and administrative expenses, pursuant to transactions with its related parties amounted to $0.5 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and $1.0 and $0.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively.

Cash Flows

Cash Flows	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Cash Flows	Cash Flows The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data are as follows: (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities: Finance lease additions $ — $ 14,266 Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid 1,758 1,906 Supplemental Data: Cash interest paid 54,207 68,129 Income taxes paid, net 45,058 29,723

Segment Information

Segment Information	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information The Company classifies its operations into two operating segments: Domestic Operations and International and Other. These operating segments represent strategic business units that are managed separately. The Company evaluates segment performance based on several factors, of which the primary financial measure is operating segment adjusted operating income ("AOI"), a non-GAAP measure. The Company defines AOI as operating income (loss) before depreciation and amortization, cloud computing amortization, share-based compensation expense or benefit, impairment and other charges (including gains or losses on sales or dispositions of businesses), restructuring and other related charges and including the Company’s proportionate share of adjusted operating income (loss) from majority-owned equity method investees. The Company has presented the components that reconcile adjusted operating income to operating income, an accepted GAAP measure, and other information as to the continuing operations of the Company's operating segments below. (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 212,282 $ 25,967 $ — $ 238,249 Distribution and other 426,733 112,310 (5,900) 533,143 Consolidated revenues, net $ 639,015 $ 138,277 $ (5,900) $ 771,392 Operating income (loss) $ 88,116 $ 19,963 $ (39,823) $ 68,256 Share-based compensation expense 7,292 913 8,057 16,262 Depreciation and amortization 11,716 4,328 6,560 22,604 Impairment and other charges 143,000 (82) — 142,918 Restructuring and other related charges 216 (17) (44) 155 Cloud computing amortization — — 642 642 Majority-owned equity investees AOI (200) — — (200) Adjusted operating income $ 250,140 $ 25,105 $ (24,608) $ 250,637 (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, 2020 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 187,434 $ 14,810 $ — 202,244 Distribution and other 375,498 75,872 (7,323) 444,047 Consolidated revenues, net $ 562,932 $ 90,682 $ (7,323) $ 646,291 Operating income (loss) $ 217,586 $ (125,562) $ (43,222) 48,802 Share-based compensation expense 4,844 909 9,482 15,235 Depreciation and amortization 11,301 7,563 7,041 25,905 Restructuring and other related charges 1,204 2,262 41 3,507 Impairment charges — 130,411 — 130,411 Majority-owned equity investees AOI 1,418 — — 1,418 Adjusted operating income $ 236,353 $ 15,583 $ (26,658) $ 225,278 (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 411,424 $ 47,538 $ — $ 458,962 Distribution and other 801,560 211,906 (9,295) 1,004,171 Consolidated revenues, net $ 1,212,984 $ 259,444 $ (9,295) $ 1,463,133 Operating income (loss) $ 304,575 $ 16,801 $ (83,412) $ 237,964 Share-based compensation expense 12,931 2,144 14,633 29,708 Depreciation and amortization 25,089 9,277 13,484 47,850 Impairment and other charges 143,000 15,973 — 158,973 Restructuring and other related charges 2,643 4,473 1,664 8,780 Cloud computing amortization — — 906 906 Majority-owned equity investees AOI 4,435 — — 4,435 Adjusted operating income $ 492,673 $ 48,668 $ (52,725) $ 488,616 (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 400,660 $ 34,174 $ — $ 434,834 Distribution and other 774,165 181,336 (9,669) 945,832 Consolidated revenues, net $ 1,174,825 $ 215,510 $ (9,669) $ 1,380,666 Operating income (loss) $ 442,187 $ (121,201) $ (99,214) $ 221,772 Share-based compensation expense 7,568 1,518 21,661 30,747 Depreciation and amortization 22,251 16,459 13,925 52,635 Restructuring and other related charges 2,686 6,239 548 9,473 Impairment charges — 130,411 — 130,411 Majority-owned equity investees AOI 2,694 — — 2,694 Adjusted operating income $ 477,386 $ 33,426 $ (63,080) $ 447,732 Corporate overhead costs not allocated to the segments include such costs as executive salaries and benefits, costs of maintaining corporate headquarters, facilities and common support functions (such as human resources, legal, finance, strategic planning and information technology). Inter-segment eliminations are primarily licensing revenues recognized between the Domestic Operations and International and Other segments. (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Inter-segment revenues Domestic Operations $ (6,256) $ (6,196) $ (6,926) $ (7,557) International and Other 356 (1,127) (2,369) (2,112) $ (5,900) $ (7,323) $ (9,295) $ (9,669) The table below summarizes revenues based on customer location: (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Revenues United States $ 612,326 $ 523,395 $ 1,189,474 $ 1,148,388 Europe 119,555 91,836 201,591 164,315 Other 39,511 31,060 72,068 67,963 $ 771,392 $ 646,291 $ 1,463,133 $ 1,380,666 The table below summarizes property and equipment based on asset location: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Property and equipment, net United States $ 206,042 $ 239,387 Europe 14,809 15,938 Other 704 720 $ 221,555 $ 256,045

Description of Business and B_2

Description of Business and Basis of Presentation (Policies)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Principles of Consolidation	Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of AMC Networks and its subsidiaries in which a controlling voting interest is maintained or variable interest entities ("VIEs") in which the Company has determined it is the primary beneficiary. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Unaudited Interim Financial Statements	Unaudited Interim Financial Statements These condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") for interim financial information and Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2020 contained in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K ("2020 Form 10-K") filed with the SEC. The condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, such financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting solely of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods presented. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that might be expected for future interim periods or for the full year ending December 31, 2021.
Use of Estimates	Use of EstimatesThe preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements; and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates and judgments inherent in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements include the useful lives and methodologies used to amortize and assess recoverability of program rights, the estimated useful lives of intangible assets and the valuation and recoverability of goodwill and intangible assets.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Effective January 1, 2021, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes
Program Rights	The Company periodically reviews the programming usefulness of its licensed and owned original program rights based on several factors, including expected future revenue generation from airings on the Company's networks and other exploitation opportunities, ratings, type and quality of program material, standards and practices, and fitness for exhibition through various forms of distribution. If it is determined that film or other program rights have limited, or no, future programming usefulness, the useful life is updated, which generally results in a write-off of the unamortized cost to technical and operating expense in the consolidated statements of income.

Revenue Recognition (Tables)

Revenue Recognition (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Schedule of Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability	The following table provides information about receivables, contract assets, and contract liabilities from contracts with customers. (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Balances from contracts with customers: Accounts receivable (including long-term, included in Other assets) $ 1,030,795 $ 1,081,070 Contract assets, short-term (included in Other current assets) 8,701 9,830 Contract assets, long-term (included in Other assets) 942 942 Contract liabilities (Deferred revenue) 76,504 71,048

Net Income per Share (Tables)

Net Income per Share (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares	The following is a reconciliation between basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding: (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Basic weighted average common shares outstanding 42,481 52,311 42,207 53,894 Effect of dilution: Stock options — — 6 — Restricted stock units 901 486 1,064 535 Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding 43,382 52,797 43,277 54,429

Restructuring and Other Relat_2

Restructuring and Other Related Charges (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Summary of Accrued Restructuring Costs	The following table summarizes the restructuring and other related charges recognized by operating segment: (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Domestic Operations $ 216 $ 1,204 $ 2,643 $ 2,686 International & Other (17) 2,262 4,473 6,239 Corporate / Inter-segment eliminations (44) 41 1,664 548 Total restructuring and other related charges $ 155 $ 3,507 $ 8,780 $ 9,473 The following table summarizes the accrued restructuring costs: (In thousands) Severance and employee-related costs Other exit costs Total December 31, 2020 $ 25,571 $ 31 $ 25,602 Charges 4,323 4,457 8,780 Cash payments (26,398) — (26,398) Non-cash adjustments — (4,457) (4,457) Other 64 — 64 Balance, June 30, 2021 $ 3,560 $ 31 $ 3,591

Program Rights (Tables)

Program Rights (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Entertainment [Abstract]
Schedule of Program Rights by Predominant Monetization Strategy	Total capitalized produced and licensed content by predominant monetization strategy is as follows: June 30, 2021 (In thousands) Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Owned original program rights, net: Completed $ 280,754 $ 29,279 $ 310,033 In-production and in-development 329,903 11,248 341,151 Total owned original program rights, net $ 610,657 $ 40,527 $ 651,184 Licensed program rights, net: Licensed film and acquired series $ 11,520 $ 581,864 $ 593,384 Licensed originals 194,520 — 194,520 Advances and content versioning costs — 130,720 130,720 Total licensed program rights, net 206,040 712,584 918,624 Program rights, net $ 816,697 $ 753,111 $ 1,569,808 Current portion of program rights, net $ 18,091 Program rights, net (long-term) 1,551,717 $ 1,569,808
Schedule of Amortization of Owned and Licensed Program Rights	Amortization, including write-offs, of owned and licensed program rights is as follows: Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 (In thousands) Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Owned original program rights $ 50,921 $ 7,571 $ 58,492 $ 84,827 $ 12,137 $ 96,964 Licensed program rights 20,865 103,004 123,869 45,885 190,499 236,384 Program rights amortization $ 71,786 $ 110,575 $ 182,361 $ 130,712 $ 202,636 $ 333,348 Three Months Ended June 30, 2020 Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 (In thousands) Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Predominantly Monetized Individually Predominantly Monetized as a Group Total Owned original program rights $ 62,229 $ 9,458 $ 71,687 $ 161,271 $ 15,977 $ 177,248 Licensed program rights 19,910 99,678 119,588 41,262 196,745 238,007 Program rights amortization $ 82,139 $ 109,136 $ 191,275 $ 202,533 $ 212,722 $ 415,255

Goodwill and Other Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill	The carrying amount of goodwill, by operating segment is as follows: (In thousands) Domestic Operations International Total December 31, 2020 $ 333,502 $ 352,905 $ 686,407 Goodwill written off related to spin-off of a business unit — (476) (476) Additions — 18,260 18,260 Amortization of "second component" goodwill (672) — (672) Foreign currency translation — (1,068) (1,068) June 30, 2021 $ 332,830 $ 369,621 $ 702,451
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets	The following tables summarize information relating to the Company's identifiable intangible assets: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Estimated Useful Lives Amortizable intangible assets: Affiliate and customer relationships $ 622,517 $ (343,335) $ 279,182 6 to 25 years Advertiser relationships 46,282 (28,132) 18,150 11 years Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets 119,856 (41,090) 78,766 3 to 20 years Total amortizable intangible assets 788,655 (412,557) 376,098 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 19,900 — 19,900 Total intangible assets $ 808,555 $ (412,557) $ 395,998 (In thousands) December 31, 2020 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Amortizable intangible assets: Affiliate and customer relationships $ 624,699 $ (330,350) $ 294,349 Advertiser relationships 46,282 (26,028) 20,254 Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets 116,526 (40,357) 76,169 Total amortizable intangible assets 787,507 (396,735) 390,772 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 19,900 — 19,900 Total intangible assets $ 807,407 $ (396,735) $ 410,672
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	The following tables summarize information relating to the Company's identifiable intangible assets: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Estimated Useful Lives Amortizable intangible assets: Affiliate and customer relationships $ 622,517 $ (343,335) $ 279,182 6 to 25 years Advertiser relationships 46,282 (28,132) 18,150 11 years Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets 119,856 (41,090) 78,766 3 to 20 years Total amortizable intangible assets 788,655 (412,557) 376,098 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 19,900 — 19,900 Total intangible assets $ 808,555 $ (412,557) $ 395,998 (In thousands) December 31, 2020 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Amortizable intangible assets: Affiliate and customer relationships $ 624,699 $ (330,350) $ 294,349 Advertiser relationships 46,282 (26,028) 20,254 Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets 116,526 (40,357) 76,169 Total amortizable intangible assets 787,507 (396,735) 390,772 Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trademarks 19,900 — 19,900 Total intangible assets $ 807,407 $ (396,735) $ 410,672
Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense	Estimated aggregate amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization for each of the following five years is: (In thousands) Years Ending December 31, 2021 $ 38,970 2022 40,147 2023 40,059 2024 39,990 2025 38,183

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities	Accrued liabilities consist of the following: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Employee related costs 78,613 $ 98,661 Participations and residuals 130,649 106,785 Interest 37,936 29,345 Settlement Payment 200,000 — Other accrued expenses 35,770 85,214 Total accrued liabilities $ 482,968 $ 320,005 With regard to the Settlement Payment, the Company has taken a charge of approximately $143 million in the quarter ended June 30, 2021 in consideration for the settlement of certain litigation (see Note 15, Commitments and Contingencies), which amount is net of approximately $57 million of ordinary course accrued participations, including amounts previously recorded in Other liabilities (long-term).

Long-term Debt (Tables)

Long-term Debt (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments	The Company's long-term debt consists of the following: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Senior Secured Credit Facility: (a) Term Loan A Facility $ 675,000 $ 675,000 Senior Notes: 4.75% Notes due December 2022 — 400,000 5.00% Notes due April 2024 400,000 1,000,000 4.75% Notes due August 2025 800,000 800,000 4.25% Notes due February 2029 1,000,000 — Total long-term debt 2,875,000 2,875,000 Unamortized discount (25,321) (18,337) Unamortized deferred financing costs (15,015) (7,356) Long-term debt, net 2,834,664 2,849,307 Current portion of long-term debt 16,875 75,000 Noncurrent portion of long-term debt $ 2,817,789 $ 2,774,307 (a) The Company's $500 million revolving credit facility remains undrawn at June 30, 2021. Total undrawn revolver commitments are available to be drawn for general corporate purposes of the Company.

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Summary of Leases Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets	The following table summarizes the leases included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as follows: (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Assets Operating Operating lease right-of-use asset $ 122,322 $ 146,522 Finance Property and equipment, net 12,630 13,179 Total lease assets $ 134,952 $ 159,701 Liabilities Current: Operating Current portion of lease obligations $ 29,671 $ 28,813 Finance Current portion of lease obligations 3,532 3,622 $ 33,203 $ 32,435 Noncurrent: Operating Lease obligations $ 129,658 166,452 Finance Lease obligations 25,739 27,872 155,397 $ 194,324 Total lease liabilities $ 188,600 $ 226,759

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	The following table presents for each of these hierarchy levels, the Company's financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020: (In thousands) Level I Level II Level III Total At June 30, 2021: Assets Cash equivalents $ 140,037 $ — $ — $ 140,037 Marketable securities 9,019 — — 9,019 Foreign currency derivatives — 473 — 473 Liabilities Interest rate swap contracts $ — $ 1,195 $ — $ 1,195 Foreign currency derivatives — 2,948 — 2,948 At December 31, 2020: Assets Cash equivalents $ 107,494 $ — $ — $ 107,494 Marketable securities 62,442 — — 62,442 Foreign currency derivatives — 667 — 667 Liabilities Interest rate swap contracts $ — $ 2,403 $ — $ 2,403 Foreign currency derivatives — 3,515 — 3,515
Schedule of Carrying Values and Fair Values of the Company's Financial Instruments	The carrying values and estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, are summarized as follows: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 Carrying Estimated Debt instruments: Term loan A facility $ 663,245 $ 669,938 5.00% Notes due April 2024 397,210 404,500 4.75% Notes due August 2025 791,097 821,000 4.25% Notes due February 2029 983,112 1,006,250 $ 2,834,664 $ 2,901,688 (In thousands) December 31, 2020 Carrying Estimated Debt instruments: Term loan A facility $ 669,878 $ 665,719 4.75% Notes due December 2022 398,230 400,500 5.00% Notes due April 2024 991,074 1,015,000 4.75% Notes due August 2025 790,125 826,160 $ 2,849,307 $ 2,907,379

Derivative Financial Instrume_2

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Included in Balance Sheets	The fair values of the Company's derivative financial instruments included in the condensed consolidated balance sheets are as follows: (In thousands) Balance Sheet June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Liabilities: Interest rate swap contracts Accrued liabilities $ 1,195 $ 2,403 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Assets: Foreign currency derivatives Prepaid expenses and other current assets $ 197 $ 300 Foreign currency derivatives Other assets 276 367 Liabilities: Foreign currency derivatives Accrued liabilities $ 1,052 $ 1,084 Foreign currency derivatives Other liabilities 1,896 2,431
Schedule of Gains and Losses Related to Derivative Instruments	The amounts of gains and losses related to the Company's derivative financial instruments designated as hedging instruments are as follows: (In thousands) Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives Location of Gain or (Loss) in Earnings Gain or (Loss) Reclassified Three Months Ended June 30, Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships: Interest rate swap contracts $ (21) $ (176) Interest expense $ 619 $ 517 (In thousands) Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives Location of Gain or (Loss) in Earnings Gain or (Loss) Reclassified Six Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships: Interest rate swap contracts $ (17) $ (2,410) Interest expense $ 1,225 $ 754
Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location	The amounts of gains and losses related to the Company's derivative financial instruments not designated as hedging instruments are as follows: (In thousands) Location of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Foreign currency derivatives Miscellaneous, net $ (149) $ (1,126) $ (95) $ (718)

Redeemable Noncontrolling Int_2

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Schedule of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	The following table summarizes activity related to redeemable noncontrolling interest for the six months ended June 30, 2021. (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 $ 315,649 Net earnings 10,139 Distributions (10,351) Distribution related to spin-off transaction (8,040) Transfer to noncontrolling interest (18,367) June 30, 2021 $ 289,030

Cash Flows (Tables)

Cash Flows (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Summary of Non-Cash Activities and Other Supplemental Data	The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data are as follows: (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities: Finance lease additions $ — $ 14,266 Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid 1,758 1,906 Supplemental Data: Cash interest paid 54,207 68,129 Income taxes paid, net 45,058 29,723

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Summary of Continuing Operations by Reportable Segment	(In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, 2021 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 212,282 $ 25,967 $ — $ 238,249 Distribution and other 426,733 112,310 (5,900) 533,143 Consolidated revenues, net $ 639,015 $ 138,277 $ (5,900) $ 771,392 Operating income (loss) $ 88,116 $ 19,963 $ (39,823) $ 68,256 Share-based compensation expense 7,292 913 8,057 16,262 Depreciation and amortization 11,716 4,328 6,560 22,604 Impairment and other charges 143,000 (82) — 142,918 Restructuring and other related charges 216 (17) (44) 155 Cloud computing amortization — — 642 642 Majority-owned equity investees AOI (200) — — (200) Adjusted operating income $ 250,140 $ 25,105 $ (24,608) $ 250,637 (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, 2020 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 187,434 $ 14,810 $ — 202,244 Distribution and other 375,498 75,872 (7,323) 444,047 Consolidated revenues, net $ 562,932 $ 90,682 $ (7,323) $ 646,291 Operating income (loss) $ 217,586 $ (125,562) $ (43,222) 48,802 Share-based compensation expense 4,844 909 9,482 15,235 Depreciation and amortization 11,301 7,563 7,041 25,905 Restructuring and other related charges 1,204 2,262 41 3,507 Impairment charges — 130,411 — 130,411 Majority-owned equity investees AOI 1,418 — — 1,418 Adjusted operating income $ 236,353 $ 15,583 $ (26,658) $ 225,278 (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 411,424 $ 47,538 $ — $ 458,962 Distribution and other 801,560 211,906 (9,295) 1,004,171 Consolidated revenues, net $ 1,212,984 $ 259,444 $ (9,295) $ 1,463,133 Operating income (loss) $ 304,575 $ 16,801 $ (83,412) $ 237,964 Share-based compensation expense 12,931 2,144 14,633 29,708 Depreciation and amortization 25,089 9,277 13,484 47,850 Impairment and other charges 143,000 15,973 — 158,973 Restructuring and other related charges 2,643 4,473 1,664 8,780 Cloud computing amortization — — 906 906 Majority-owned equity investees AOI 4,435 — — 4,435 Adjusted operating income $ 492,673 $ 48,668 $ (52,725) $ 488,616 (In thousands) Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 Domestic Operations International Corporate / Inter-segment Consolidated Revenues, net Advertising $ 400,660 $ 34,174 $ — $ 434,834 Distribution and other 774,165 181,336 (9,669) 945,832 Consolidated revenues, net $ 1,174,825 $ 215,510 $ (9,669) $ 1,380,666 Operating income (loss) $ 442,187 $ (121,201) $ (99,214) $ 221,772 Share-based compensation expense 7,568 1,518 21,661 30,747 Depreciation and amortization 22,251 16,459 13,925 52,635 Restructuring and other related charges 2,686 6,239 548 9,473 Impairment charges — 130,411 — 130,411 Majority-owned equity investees AOI 2,694 — — 2,694 Adjusted operating income $ 477,386 $ 33,426 $ (63,080) $ 447,732
Schedule of Summary of Inter-Segment Eliminations	Inter-segment eliminations are primarily licensing revenues recognized between the Domestic Operations and International and Other segments. (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Inter-segment revenues Domestic Operations $ (6,256) $ (6,196) $ (6,926) $ (7,557) International and Other 356 (1,127) (2,369) (2,112) $ (5,900) $ (7,323) $ (9,295) $ (9,669)
Schedule of Revenue by Geographic Area	The table below summarizes revenues based on customer location: (In thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Revenues United States $ 612,326 $ 523,395 $ 1,189,474 $ 1,148,388 Europe 119,555 91,836 201,591 164,315 Other 39,511 31,060 72,068 67,963 $ 771,392 $ 646,291 $ 1,463,133 $ 1,380,666
Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets	The table below summarizes property and equipment based on asset location: (In thousands) June 30, 2021 December 31, 2020 Property and equipment, net United States $ 206,042 $ 239,387 Europe 14,809 15,938 Other 704 720 $ 221,555 $ 256,045

Description of Business and B_3

Description of Business and Basis of Presentation (Narrative) (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021networksegment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Number of operating segments | segment	2
Number of national programming networks | network	5

Revenue Recognition (Contract w

Revenue Recognition (Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Accounts receivable (including long-term, included in Other assets)	$ 1,030,795	$ 1,081,070
Contract assets, short-term (included in Other current assets)	8,701	9,830
Contract assets, long-term (included in Other assets)	942	942
Contract liabilities (Deferred revenue)	$ 76,504	$ 71,048

Revenue Recognition (Narrative)

Revenue Recognition (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue recognized	$ 17.7

Net Income per Share (Reconcili

Net Income per Share (Reconciliation Between Basic and Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	42,481	52,311	42,207	53,894
Effect of dilution:
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	43,382	52,797	43,277	54,429
Stock options
Effect of dilution:
Effect of dilution (in shares)	0	0	6	0
Restricted stock units
Effect of dilution:
Effect of dilution (in shares)	901	486	1,064	535

Net Income per Share (Narrative

Net Income per Share (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from EPS (in shares)	300,000	700,000
Amount authorized under Stock Repurchase Program	$ 1,500,000,000
Available for repurchase under the Stock Repurchase Program	$ 135,300,000
Class A Common Stock
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Number of shares repurchased (in shares)	0
Restricted stock units
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Antidilutive securities excluded from EPS (in shares)	500,000	1,200,000

Impairment and Other Charges (D

Impairment and Other Charges (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 16, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Derivative [Line Items]
Litigation settlement, charge			$ 143,000
Loss contingency accrual			57,000		$ 57,000
Impairment and other charges			$ 142,918	$ 130,411	$ 158,973	$ 130,411
A M C N I Reporting Unit
Derivative [Line Items]
Impairment and other charges				105,300		105,300
Impairment charge related to goodwill				$ 25,100		$ 25,100
Subsequent Event
Derivative [Line Items]
Loss contingency	$ 200,000
Plaintiffs | Subsequent Event
Derivative [Line Items]
Loss contingency	200,000
Litigation settlement, charge	143,000
Loss contingency accrual	$ 57,000
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Not Discontinued Operations, Spinoff
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on disposal		$ 16,100

Restructuring and Other Relat_3

Restructuring and Other Related Charges (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other related charges	$ 155	$ 3,507	$ 8,780	$ 9,473
Restructuring charges			8,780
Accrued restructuring costs	3,600		3,600
Management Changes
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and other related charges	200		8,800
A M C N I Reporting Unit | Management Changes
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges			4,500
Severance and employee-related costs
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges			4,323
Severance and employee-related costs | Management Changes
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring charges	$ 200		$ 4,300

Restructuring and Other Relat_4

Restructuring and Other Related Charges (Summary of Restructuring and Other Related Charges by Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total restructuring and other related charges	$ 155	$ 3,507	$ 8,780	$ 9,473
Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total restructuring and other related charges	216	1,204	2,643	2,686
Operating segments | International & Other
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total restructuring and other related charges	(17)	2,262	4,473	6,239
Corporate / Inter-segment eliminations
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total restructuring and other related charges	$ (44)	$ 41	$ 1,664	$ 548

Restructuring and Other Relat_5

Restructuring and Other Related Charges (Summary of Accrued Restructuring Costs) (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 25,602
Charges	8,780
Cash payments	(26,398)
Non-cash adjustments	(4,457)
Other	64
Ending Balance	3,591
Severance and employee-related costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	25,571
Charges	4,323
Cash payments	(26,398)
Non-cash adjustments	0
Other	64
Ending Balance	3,560
Other exit costs
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	31
Charges	4,457
Cash payments	0
Non-cash adjustments	(4,457)
Other	0
Ending Balance	$ 31

Program Rights (Program Rights

Program Rights (Program Rights by Predominant Monetization Strategy) (Details) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Predominantly Monetized Individually
Completed	$ 280,754
In-production and in-development	329,903
Total owned original program rights, net	610,657
Licensed film and acquired series	11,520
Licensed originals	194,520
Advances and content versioning costs	0
Total licensed program rights, net	206,040
Program rights, net	816,697
Predominantly Monetized as a Group
Completed	29,279
In-production and in-development	11,248
Total owned original program rights, net	40,527
Licensed film and acquired series	581,864
Licensed originals	0
Advances and content versioning costs	130,720
Total licensed program rights, net	712,584
Program rights, net	753,111
Total
Completed	310,033
In-production and in-development	341,151
Total owned original program rights, net	651,184
Licensed film and acquired series	593,384
Licensed originals	194,520
Advances and content versioning costs	130,720
Total licensed program rights, net	918,624
Program rights, net	1,569,808
Current portion of program rights, net	18,091
Program rights, net (long-term)	$ 1,551,717

Program Rights (Amortization of

Program Rights (Amortization of Owned and Licensed Program Rights) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Owned original program rights
Predominantly Monetized Individually	$ 50,921	$ 62,229	$ 84,827	$ 161,271
Predominantly Monetized as a Group	7,571	9,458	12,137	15,977
Total	58,492	71,687	96,964	177,248
Licensed program rights
Predominantly Monetized Individually	20,865	19,910	45,885	41,262
Predominantly Monetized as a Group	103,004	99,678	190,499	196,745
Total	123,869	119,588	236,384	238,007
Predominantly Monetized Individually	71,786	82,139	130,712	202,533
Predominantly Monetized as a Group	110,575	109,136	202,636	212,722
Total	$ 182,361	$ 191,275	$ 333,348	$ 415,255

Program Rights (Narrative) (Det

Program Rights (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Entertainment [Abstract]
Program rights write-offs	$ 0	$ 7,900,000	$ 0	$ 12,100,000

Investments (Narrative) (Detail

Investments (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jan. 31, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Feb. 28, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Investments [Abstract]
Equity method investments	$ 90.7		$ 90.7		$ 90.7		$ 27.4	$ 69.5
Payments to acquire equity method investments	$ 23.8
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	50.00%		50.00%		50.00%		50.00%
Gain related to step-up fair value					$ 12.3
Investments in marketable equity securities	$ 9		$ 9		9			62.4
Sale of marketable securities		$ 51
Realized loss		$ 5.4
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities			(2.4)	$ (15)	(2.4)	$ (14)
Investments in non-marketable equity securities	$ 36.9		$ 36.9		$ 36.9			$ 35.8
Write-down of non-marketable equity securities and note receivable						$ 20

Goodwill and Other Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Goodwill) (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 686,407
Goodwill written off related to spin-off of a business unit	(476)
Additions	18,260
Amortization of "second component" goodwill	(672)
Foreign currency translation	(1,068)
Ending balance	702,451
Domestic Operations
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	333,502
Goodwill written off related to spin-off of a business unit	0
Additions	0
Amortization of "second component" goodwill	(672)
Foreign currency translation	0
Ending balance	332,830
International & Other
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	352,905
Goodwill written off related to spin-off of a business unit	(476)
Additions	18,260
Amortization of "second component" goodwill	0
Foreign currency translation	(1,068)
Ending balance	$ 369,621

Goodwill and Other Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Feb. 28, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Reduction in carrying amount of goodwill	$ 672
Additions	$ 18,260
Equity method investment, ownership percentage	50.00%		50.00%
Aggregate amortization expense for amortizable intangible assets	$ 18,900	$ 23,100
Domestic Operations
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Reduction in carrying amount of goodwill	672
Additions	0
International & Other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Accumulated impairment charges	123,100			$ 123,100
Reduction in carrying amount of goodwill	0
Additions	$ 18,260

Goodwill and Other Intangible_5

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Finite and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 788,655	$ 787,507
Accumulated Amortization	(412,557)	(396,735)
Net	376,098	390,772
Trademarks	19,900	19,900
Total intangible assets, gross	808,555	807,407
Total intangible assets, net	395,998	410,672
Affiliate and customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	622,517	624,699
Accumulated Amortization	(343,335)	(330,350)
Net	279,182	294,349
Advertiser relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	46,282	46,282
Accumulated Amortization	(28,132)	(26,028)
Net	$ 18,150	20,254
Estimated useful lives (in years)	11 years
Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 119,856	116,526
Accumulated Amortization	(41,090)	(40,357)
Net	$ 78,766	$ 76,169
Minimum | Affiliate and customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives (in years)	6 years
Minimum | Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives (in years)	3 years
Maximum | Affiliate and customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives (in years)	25 years
Maximum | Trade names and other amortizable intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives (in years)	20 years

Goodwill and Other Intangible_6

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense) (Details) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
2021	$ 38,970
2022	40,147
2023	40,059
2024	39,990
2025	$ 38,183

Accrued Liabilities (Details)

Accrued Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Employee related costs	$ 78,613	$ 98,661
Participations and residuals	130,649	106,785
Interest	37,936	29,345
Settlement Payment	200,000	0
Other accrued expenses	35,770	85,214
Total accrued liabilities	482,968	$ 320,005
Litigation settlement, charge	143,000
Loss contingency accrual	$ 57,000

Long-term Debt (Summary of Long

Long-term Debt (Summary of Long-Term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Feb. 08, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 2,875,000		$ 2,875,000
Unamortized discount	(25,321)		(18,337)
Unamortized deferred financing costs	(15,015)		(7,356)
Long-term debt, net	2,834,664		2,849,307
Current portion of long-term debt	16,875		75,000
Noncurrent portion of long-term debt	2,817,789		2,774,307
Senior Notes | 4.75% Notes due December 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 0		400,000
Interest rate	4.75%	4.75%
Senior Notes | 5.00% Notes due April 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 400,000		1,000,000
Interest rate	5.00%	5.00%
Senior Notes | 4.75% Notes due August 2025
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 800,000		800,000
Interest rate	4.75%
Senior Notes | 4.25% Notes due February 2029
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 1,000,000		0
Interest rate	4.25%	4.25%
Secured debt | Term Loan A Facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 675,000		$ 675,000
Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Remaining undrawn capacity	$ 500,000

Long-term Debt (Narrative) (Det

Long-term Debt (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	Feb. 08, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt					$ 984,500,000	$ 6,000,000
Loss on extinguishment of debt		$ 0		$ 0	$ 22,074,000	$ 2,908,000
Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total credit facilities	$ 500,000,000
Term Loan A Facility | Secured debt
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total credit facilities	675,000,000
4.25% Notes due February 2029 | Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Total credit facilities	$ 1,000,000,000
Interest rate	4.25%	4.25%			4.25%
Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt	$ 982,300,000
4.75% Notes due December 2022 | Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	4.75%	4.75%			4.75%
Redemption of principal amount	$ 400,000,000
Redemption price (as a percentage)	100.00%
Loss on extinguishment of debt			$ 22,100,000
5.00% Notes due April 2024 | Senior Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	5.00%	5.00%			5.00%
Redemption of principal amount	$ 600,000,000
Redemption price (as a percentage)	102.50%

Leases (Summary of Lease Assets

Leases (Summary of Lease Assets and Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Operating lease asset	$ 122,322	$ 146,522
Finance lease asset	12,630	13,179
Total lease assets	134,952	159,701
Operating lease liability, current	29,671	28,813
Finance lease liability, current	3,532	3,622
Total lease liabilities, current	33,203	32,435
Operating lease liability, noncurrent	129,658	166,452
Finance lease liability, noncurrent	25,739	27,872
Total lease liabilities, noncurrent	155,397	194,324
Total lease liabilities	$ 188,600	$ 226,759
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $272,532 and $261,082	Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $272,532 and $261,082
Operating Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]
Finance Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]

Fair Value Measurement (Financi

Fair Value Measurement (Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Assets
Cash equivalents	$ 140,037	$ 107,494
Marketable securities	9,019	62,442
Derivatives	473	667
Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities
Derivatives	1,195	2,403
Foreign currency derivatives
Liabilities
Derivatives	2,948	3,515
Level I
Assets
Cash equivalents	140,037	107,494
Marketable securities	9,019	62,442
Derivatives	0	0
Level I | Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities
Derivatives	0	0
Level I | Foreign currency derivatives
Liabilities
Derivatives	0	0
Level II
Assets
Cash equivalents	0	0
Marketable securities	0	0
Derivatives	473	667
Level II | Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities
Derivatives	1,195	2,403
Level II | Foreign currency derivatives
Liabilities
Derivatives	2,948	3,515
Level III
Assets
Cash equivalents	0	0
Marketable securities	0	0
Derivatives	0	0
Level III | Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities
Derivatives	0	0
Level III | Foreign currency derivatives
Liabilities
Derivatives	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value Measurement (Carryin

Fair Value Measurement (Carrying Values and Fair Values of the Company's Financial Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Carrying Amount
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	$ 2,834,664	$ 2,849,307
Carrying Amount | Term Loan A Facility
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	663,245	669,878
Carrying Amount | 5.00% Notes due April 2024
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	397,210	991,074
Carrying Amount | 4.75% Notes due December 2022
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt		398,230
Carrying Amount | 4.25% Notes due February 2029
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	983,112
Carrying Amount | 4.75% Notes due August 2025
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	791,097	790,125
Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	2,901,688	2,907,379
Estimated Fair Value | Term Loan A Facility
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	669,938	665,719
Estimated Fair Value | 5.00% Notes due April 2024
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	404,500	1,015,000
Estimated Fair Value | 4.75% Notes due December 2022
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt		400,500
Estimated Fair Value | 4.25% Notes due February 2029
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	1,006,250
Estimated Fair Value | 4.75% Notes due August 2025
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Debt	$ 821,000	$ 826,160

Derivative Financial Instrume_3

Derivative Financial Instruments (Narrative) (Details)	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Interest rate swap contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amounts	$ 100,000,000

Derivative Financial Instrume_4

Derivative Financial Instruments (Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Included in Balance Sheets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | Interest rate swap contracts | Accrued liabilities
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Interest rate swap contracts liabilities	$ 1,195	$ 2,403
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign currency derivatives | Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency derivative assets	197	300
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign currency derivatives | Other assets
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency derivative assets	276	367
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign currency derivatives | Accrued liabilities
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency derivative liabilities	1,052	1,084
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign currency derivatives | Other liabilities
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency derivative liabilities	$ 1,896	$ 2,431

Derivative Financial Instrume_5

Derivative Financial Instruments (Schedule of Gains and Losses Related to Derivative Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives  Recognized in OCI	$ 598	$ 341	$ 1,208	$ (1,656)
Cash Flow Hedging | Interest expense
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain or (Loss) Reclassified  from Accumulated OCI  into Earnings	619	517	1,225	754
Cash Flow Hedging | Interest rate swap contracts
Derivative [Line Items]
Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives  Recognized in OCI	$ (21)	$ (176)	$ (17)	$ (2,410)

Derivative Financial Instrume_6

Derivative Financial Instruments (Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Foreign currency derivatives | Miscellaneous, net
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Earnings on Derivatives	$ (149)	$ (1,126)	$ (95)	$ (718)

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense (benefit)	$ 11,321	$ 9,707	$ 37,236	$ 43,295
Effective tax rate	21.00%	36.00%	21.00%	32.00%
Federal statutory rate	21.00%		21.00%	21.00%
Foreign tax credit carry forwards	$ 33,500		$ 33,500
Valuation allowance	33,500		33,500
Second component of tax deductible goodwill, net of tax	$ 500		$ 500

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Jul. 16, 2021USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)	Jan. 20, 2021defendant	Jul. 22, 2020legal_matter
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Increase (decrease) in contractual obligations not reflected in the balance sheet			$ 92
Contractual obligation		$ 1,103.9	1,103.9
Settlement Payment		143
Loss contingency accrual		$ 57	$ 57
Subsequent Event
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss contingency	$ 200
California Action
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Number of legal matters | legal_matter					7
Number of defendants eliminated | defendant				8

Equity Plans (Narrative) (Detai

Equity Plans (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Deemed repurchases of restricted stock units					$ 34,632	$ 8,946
Share-based compensation expense			$ 16,262	$ 15,235	$ 29,708	$ 30,747
Total unrecognized share-based compensation costs, remaining period of recognition					1 year 10 months 24 days
RSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares surrendered to the company for tax withholding (in shares)					263,671
Total unrecognized share-based compensation costs	$ 47,400		$ 47,400		$ 47,400
RSUs | Class A Common Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares vested in period (in shares)					617,051
New shares of company's class A common stock issued (in shares)					353,380
PRSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares surrendered to the company for tax withholding (in shares)					168,712
PRSUs | Class A Common Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares vested in period (in shares)					368,296
New shares of company's class A common stock issued (in shares)					199,584
2011 Stock Plan | RSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted in period (in units)	29,916
2016 Employee Stock Plan | RSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted in period (in units)		535,278
Vesting period (in years)		3 years
Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One | 2016 Employee Stock Plan | RSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Granted in period (in units)		178,764

Redeemable Noncontrolling Int_3

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Activity (Details) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021USD ($)
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 315,649
Net earnings	10,139
Distributions	(10,351)
Distribution related to spin-off transaction	(8,040)
Transfer to noncontrolling interest	(18,367)
Ending balance	289,030
Transfer from redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 18,367

Related Party Transactions (Nar

Related Party Transactions (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Net revenues from related parties	$ 1.3	$ 1.2	$ 2.5	$ 2.4
Selling, general and administrative charges from related parties	$ 0.5	$ 0.1	$ 1	$ 0.1

Cash Flows (Summary of Non-Cash

Cash Flows (Summary of Non-Cash Activities and Other Supplemental Data) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Finance lease additions	$ 0	$ 14,266
Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid	1,758	1,906
Supplemental Data:
Cash interest paid	54,207	68,129
Income taxes paid, net	$ 45,058	$ 29,723

Segment Information (Narrative)

Segment Information (Narrative) (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of operating segments	2

Segment Information (Summary of

Segment Information (Summary of Continuing Operations by Reportable Segment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	$ 771,392	$ 646,291	$ 1,463,133	$ 1,380,666
Operating income (loss)	68,256	48,802	237,964	221,772
Share-based compensation expense	16,262	15,235	29,708	30,747
Depreciation and amortization	22,604	25,905	47,850	52,635
Impairment and other charges	142,918	130,411	158,973	130,411
Restructuring and other related charges	155	3,507	8,780	9,473
Cloud computing amortization	642		906
Majority-owned equity investees AOI	(200)	1,418	4,435	2,694
Adjusted operating income	250,637	225,278	488,616	447,732
Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	639,015	562,932
Operating income (loss)	88,116	217,586
Share-based compensation expense	7,292	4,844
Depreciation and amortization	11,716	11,301
Impairment and other charges	143,000	0
Restructuring and other related charges	216	1,204	2,643	2,686
Cloud computing amortization	0
Majority-owned equity investees AOI	(200)	1,418
Adjusted operating income	250,140	236,353
Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net			1,212,984	1,174,825
Operating income (loss)			304,575	442,187
Share-based compensation expense			12,931	7,568
Depreciation and amortization			25,089	22,251
Impairment and other charges			143,000	0
Restructuring and other related charges			2,643	2,686
Cloud computing amortization			0
Majority-owned equity investees AOI			4,435	2,694
Adjusted operating income			492,673	477,386
Operating segments | International & Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	138,277	90,682	259,444	215,510
Operating income (loss)	19,963	(125,562)	16,801	(121,201)
Share-based compensation expense	913	909	2,144	1,518
Depreciation and amortization	4,328	7,563	9,277	16,459
Impairment and other charges	(82)	130,411	15,973	130,411
Restructuring and other related charges	(17)	2,262	4,473	6,239
Cloud computing amortization	0		0
Majority-owned equity investees AOI	0	0	0	0
Adjusted operating income	25,105	15,583	48,668	33,426
Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	(5,900)	(7,323)	(9,295)	(9,669)
Operating income (loss)	(39,823)	(43,222)	(83,412)	(99,214)
Share-based compensation expense	8,057	9,482	14,633	21,661
Depreciation and amortization	6,560	7,041	13,484	13,925
Impairment and other charges	0	0	0	0
Restructuring and other related charges	(44)	41	1,664	548
Cloud computing amortization	642		906
Majority-owned equity investees AOI	0	0	0	0
Adjusted operating income	(24,608)	(26,658)	(52,725)	(63,080)
Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	(6,256)	(6,196)	(6,926)	(7,557)
Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations | International & Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	356	(1,127)	(2,369)	(2,112)
Advertising
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	238,249	202,244	458,962	434,834
Advertising | Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	212,282	187,434
Advertising | Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net			411,424	400,660
Advertising | Operating segments | International & Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	25,967	14,810	47,538	34,174
Advertising | Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	0	0	0	0
Distribution and other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	533,143	444,047	1,004,171	945,832
Distribution and other | Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	426,733	375,498
Distribution and other | Operating segments | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net			801,560	774,165
Distribution and other | Operating segments | International & Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	112,310	75,872	211,906	181,336
Distribution and other | Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	$ (5,900)	$ (7,323)	$ (9,295)	$ (9,669)

Segment Information (Summary _2

Segment Information (Summary of Inter-Segment Eliminations) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	$ 771,392	$ 646,291	$ 1,463,133	$ 1,380,666
Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	(5,900)	(7,323)	(9,295)	(9,669)
Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations | Domestic Operations
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	(6,256)	(6,196)	(6,926)	(7,557)
Corporate / Inter-segment Eliminations | International and Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	$ 356	$ (1,127)	$ (2,369)	$ (2,112)

Segment Information (Revenues b

Segment Information (Revenues by geographic region) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020	Jun. 30, 2021	Jun. 30, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	$ 771,392	$ 646,291	$ 1,463,133	$ 1,380,666
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	612,326	523,395	1,189,474	1,148,388
Europe
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	119,555	91,836	201,591	164,315
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenues, net	$ 39,511	$ 31,060	$ 72,068	$ 67,963

Segment Information (Long-lived

Segment Information (Long-lived Assets by Geographic Location) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 221,555	$ 256,045
United States
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	206,042	239,387
Europe
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	14,809	15,938
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Property and equipment, net	$ 704	$ 720

Uncategorized Items - amcx-2021

Label	Element	Value
Accounting Standards Update [Extensible Enumeration]	us-gaap_AccountingStandardsUpdateExtensibleList	Accounting Standards Update 2016-13 [Member]