The E.W. Scripps Company (SSP) 10-Q 4 Nov 16 2016 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016shares
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Registrant Name	E.W. SCRIPPS Co
Entity Central Index Key	832,428
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Common stock, Class A
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	70,965,458
Voting common stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	11,932,722

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 88,378	$ 108,061
Restricted cash	5,460	6,560
Accounts and notes receivable (less allowances — $1,511 and $1,610)	184,487	171,901
Income taxes receivable	1,189	4,626
Miscellaneous	12,700	11,482
Total current assets	292,214	302,630
Investments	14,344	13,856
Property and equipment	262,870	271,047
Goodwill	616,780	585,787
Other intangible assets	473,589	479,187
Deferred income taxes	10,533	13,640
Miscellaneous	14,544	14,713
Total Assets	1,684,874	1,680,860
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	27,573	31,606
Customer deposits and unearned revenue	14,608	8,508
Current portion of long-term debt	9,312	6,656
Accrued liabilities:
Employee compensation and benefits	22,751	33,669
Miscellaneous	20,917	25,392
Other current liabilities	11,743	13,992
Total current liabilities	106,904	119,823
Long-term debt (less current portion)	387,339	392,487
Other liabilities (less current portion)	264,158	267,567
Equity:
Preferred stock, $.01 par — authorized: 25,000,000 shares; none outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 70,965,458 and 71,886,969 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,722 shares	829	838
Additional paid-in capital	1,145,688	1,163,985
Accumulated deficit	(132,386)	(174,038)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes	(87,658)	(89,802)
Total equity	926,473	900,983
Total Liabilities and Equity	1,684,874	1,680,860
Common stock, Class A
Equity:
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 70,965,458 and 71,886,969 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,722 shares	710	719
Voting common stock
Equity:
Common stock, $.01 par: Class A - authorized: 240,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 70,965,458 and 71,886,969 shares; Voting - authorized: 60,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding; 11,932,722 and 11,932,722 shares	$ 119	$ 119

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Allowances for accounts and notes receivable	$ 1,511	$ 1,610
Preferred stock, par value (USD per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	25,000,000	25,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value (USD per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, Class A
Common stock, shares authorized	240,000,000	240,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	70,965,458	71,886,969
Common stock, shares outstanding	70,965,458	71,886,969
Voting common stock
Common stock, shares authorized	60,000,000	60,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	11,932,722	11,932,722
Common stock, shares outstanding	11,932,722	11,932,722

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Operating Revenues:
Advertising	$ 170,169	$ 144,983	$ 479,932	$ 389,088
Retransmission	53,134	36,287	160,181	100,700
Other	9,737	8,421	30,242	21,060
Total operating revenues	233,040	189,691	670,355	510,848
Costs and Expenses:
Employee compensation and benefits	91,568	88,296	279,916	247,776
Programs and program licenses	45,833	36,318	129,904	88,837
Other expenses	49,791	42,166	145,822	115,037
Defined benefit pension plan expense	3,605	2,976	10,504	9,782
Acquisition and related integration costs	0	4,206	578	36,953
Total costs and expenses	190,797	173,962	566,724	498,385
Depreciation, Amortization, and (Gains) Losses:
Depreciation	8,407	11,092	25,991	25,883
Amortization of intangible assets	6,485	5,181	18,098	12,051
Impairment of goodwill and intangibles	0	24,613	0	24,613
Losses, net on disposal of property and equipment	26	200	44	579
Net depreciation, amortization, and (gains) losses	14,918	41,086	44,133	63,126
Operating income (loss)	27,325	(25,357)	59,498	(50,663)
Interest expense	(4,592)	(4,246)	(13,603)	(10,523)
Miscellaneous, net	(596)	1,061	(1,245)	12
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes	22,137	(28,542)	44,650	(61,174)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	9,615	(4,099)	15,752	(15,661)
Income (loss) from continuing operations	12,522	(24,443)	28,898	(45,513)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax	0	0	0	(15,432)
Net income (loss)	$ 12,522	$ (24,443)	$ 28,898	$ (60,945)
Net income (loss) per basic share of common stock:
Income (loss) from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$ 0.15	$ (0.29)	$ 0.34	$ (0.61)
Loss from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	0	0	(0.21)
Net income (loss) per basic share of common stock (in dollars per share)	0.15	(0.29)	0.34	(0.82)
Net income (loss) per diluted share of common stock:
Income (loss) from continuing operations (in dollars per share)	0.15	(0.29)	0.34	(0.61)
Loss from discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	0	0	0	(0.21)
Net income (loss) per diluted share of common stock (in dollars per share)	$ 0.15	$ (0.29)	$ 0.34	$ (0.82)

Condensed Consolidated Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Net income (loss)	$ 12,522	$ (24,443)	$ 28,898	$ (60,945)
Changes in fair value of derivative, net of tax of $37, $37, $111 and $110	59	59	177	178
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, net of tax of $440, $471, $1,241 and $(740)	706	762	1,988	(1,197)
Other	(7)	0	(21)	84
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$ 13,280	$ (23,622)	$ 31,042	$ (61,880)

Condensed Consolidated Stateme6

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Changes in fair value of derivatives, tax amount	$ 37	$ 37	$ 111	$ 110
Changes in defined benefit pension plans, tax amount	$ 440	$ 471	$ 1,241	$ (740)

Condensed Consolidated Stateme7

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 28,898	$ (60,945)
Loss from discontinued operations	0	15,432
Income (loss) from continuing operations	28,898	(45,513)
Adjustments to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	44,089	37,934
Impairment of goodwill and intangibles	0	24,613
Losses on sale of property and equipment	44	579
Deferred income taxes	16,517	(14,410)
Stock and deferred compensation plans	9,120	8,393
Pension expense, net of payments	2,046	10,065
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net	(21,612)	(46,091)
Miscellaneous, net	1,886	2,788
Net cash provided by (used in) continuing operating activities	80,988	(21,642)
Net cash provided by discontinued operating activities	0	6,861
Net operating activities	80,988	(14,781)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(43,500)	(46,838)
Additions to property and equipment	(21,590)	(15,244)
Purchase of investments	(1,728)	(7,087)
Change in restricted cash	1,100	250
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	216	15
Net cash used in continuing investing activities	(65,502)	(68,904)
Net cash used in discontinued investing activities	0	(1,561)
Net investing activities	(65,502)	(70,465)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	200,000
Payments on long-term debt	(3,000)	(121,269)
Payments of financing costs	0	(2,592)
Payments of ordinary dividends, Common Stock	0	(59,523)
Repurchase of Class A Common shares	(29,673)	(10,901)
Proceeds from exercise of employee stock options	4,641	6,041
Tax payments related to shares withheld for RSU vesting	(2,652)	(5,126)
Miscellaneous, net	(4,485)	1,499
Net cash (used in) provided by continuing financing activities	(35,169)	8,129
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(19,683)	(77,117)
Cash and cash equivalents:
Beginning of year	108,061	158,459
End of period	88,378	81,342
Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures
Interest paid	12,092	9,353
Income taxes paid	$ 393	$ 14,709

Condensed Consolidated Stateme8

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Noncontrolling Interests
Balance, beginning at Dec. 31, 2014		$ 519,933	$ 570	$ 525,456	$ 118,693	$ (126,443)	$ 1,657
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)		(60,945)			(60,945)
Changes in defined benefit pension plans		(1,197)				(1,197)
Changes in fair value of derivative		178				178
Cash dividends: declared and paid — $1.03 per share		(59,523)			(59,523)
Shares issued for acquisition: 26,350,993 shares issued		636,000	263	635,737
Spin-off of Newspapers		(140,562)			(141,231)	2,326	(1,657)
Repurchase Class A Common shares: 561,019 in 2015 and 1,769,824 in 2016		(10,901)	(6)	(5,932)	(4,963)
Compensation plans: 1,084,647 net shares issued in 2015 and 848,313 in 2016	[1]	9,387	11	9,376
Other		84				84
Balance, ending at Sep. 30, 2015		892,454	838	1,164,637	(147,969)	(125,052)	0
Balance, beginning (Scenario, Previously Reported) at Dec. 31, 2015		900,983	838	1,163,985	(174,038)	(89,802)	0
Balance, beginning (Scenario, Adjustment) at Dec. 31, 2015		14,750	0	(58)	14,808	0	0
Balance, beginning (Scenario, As Adjusted) at Dec. 31, 2015		915,733	838	1,163,927	(159,230)	(89,802)	0
Balance, beginning at Dec. 31, 2015		900,983
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income (loss)		28,898			28,898		0
Changes in defined benefit pension plans		1,988				1,988
Changes in fair value of derivative		177				177
Repurchase Class A Common shares: 561,019 in 2015 and 1,769,824 in 2016		(29,673)	(18)	(27,601)	(2,054)
Compensation plans: 1,084,647 net shares issued in 2015 and 848,313 in 2016	[1]	9,371	9	9,362
Other		(21)				(21)
Balance, ending at Sep. 30, 2016		$ 926,473	$ 829	$ 1,145,688	$ (132,386)	$ (87,658)	$ 0
[1]	* Net of tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs of $2,652 in 2016 and $5,126 in 2015.

Condensed Consolidated Stateme9

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Equity (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	$ 0	$ 1.03
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid	$ 0	$ 1.03
Number of shares issued in business acquisition	0	26,350,993
Shares issued on compensation plans	848,313	1,084,647
Repurchase of Class A Common shares	1,769,824	561,019
Tax payments related to shares withheld for vested stock and RSUs	$ 2,652	$ 5,126

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies As used in the Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, the terms “Scripps,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” or “us” may, depending on the context, refer to The E.W. Scripps Company, to one or more of its consolidated subsidiary companies or to all of them taken as a whole. Basis of Presentation — The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. The interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In management's opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods have been made. Results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for future interim periods or for the full year. Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period's presentation. Nature of Operations — We are a diverse media enterprise with a portfolio of television, radio and digital media brands. All of our media businesses provide content and advertising services via digital platforms, including the Internet, smartphones and tablets. Our media businesses are organized into the following reportable business segments: television, radio, digital, and syndication and other. Additional information for our business segments is presented in the Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. On April 1, 2015, we distributed our newspaper business to our shareholders in a tax-free spin-off. See Note 17 for information on the spin-off. Use of Estimates — Preparing financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make a variety of decisions that affect the reported amounts and the related disclosures. Such decisions include the selection of accounting principles that reflect the economic substance of the underlying transactions and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. In reaching such decisions, we apply judgment based on our understanding and analysis of the relevant circumstances, including our historical experience, actuarial studies and other assumptions. Our financial statements include estimates and assumptions used in accounting for our defined benefit pension plans; the periods over which long-lived assets are depreciated or amortized; the fair value of long-lived assets, goodwill and indefinite lived assets; the liability for uncertain tax positions and valuation allowances against deferred income tax assets; the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations; and self-insured risks. While we re-evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis, actual results could differ from those estimated at the time of preparation of the financial statements. Revenue Recognition — We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists, delivery occurs or services are rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. When a sales arrangement contains multiple elements, such as the sale of advertising and other services, we allocate revenue to each element based upon its relative fair value. We report revenue net of sales and other taxes collected from our customers. Our primary sources of revenue are from the sale of broadcast and digital advertising, as well as retransmission fees received from cable operators and satellite carriers. The revenue recognition policies for each source of revenue are described in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Share-Based Compensation — We have a Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) which is described more fully in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 . The Plan provides for the award of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units (RSUs), unrestricted Class A Common shares and performance units to key employees and non-employee directors. Share-based compensation costs totaled $(0.5) million and $1.4 million for the third quarter of 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Year-to-date share-based compensation costs totaled $6.7 million and $8.5 million in 2016 and 2015 , respectively, of which $1.1 million for 2015 is included in discontinued operations. The credit balance for the third quarter of 2016 is due to an adjustment of our performance based share expense due to changes in our estimate of the number of shares that will vest. Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) — Unvested awards of share-based payments with rights to receive dividends or dividend equivalents, such as our RSUs, are considered participating securities for purposes of calculating EPS. Under the two-class method, we allocate a portion of net income to these participating securities and therefore exclude that income from the calculation of EPS for common stock. We do not allocate losses to the participating securities. The following table presents information about basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Numerator (for basic and diluted earnings per share) Income (loss) from continuing operations $ 12,522 $ (24,443 ) $ 28,898 $ (45,513 ) Less income allocated to RSUs (174 ) — (373 ) — Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 12,348 $ (24,443 ) $ 28,525 $ (45,513 ) Denominator Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 83,230 84,107 83,654 75,213 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options held by employees and directors 288 — 306 — Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 83,518 84,107 83,960 75,213 Anti-dilutive securities (1) — 2,148 — 2,148 (1) Amount outstanding at balance sheet date, before application of the treasury stock method and not weighted for period outstanding. For the quarter and nine month periods ended September 30, 2015 , we incurred a loss and the inclusion of RSUs and stock options held by employees and directors would have been anti-dilutive, and accordingly the diluted EPS calculation for the period excludes those common share equivalents. Derivative Financial Instruments — It is our policy that derivative transactions are executed only to manage exposures arising in the normal course of business and not for the purpose of creating speculative positions or trading. Derivative financial instruments are utilized to manage interest rate risks. We do not hold derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. All derivatives must be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Each derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge or remains undesignated. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affected earnings. These changes are offset in earnings to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. Changes in the fair value of undesignated hedges are recognized currently in earnings. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in earnings. All designated hedges are formally documented as to the relationship with the hedged item as well as the risk-management strategy. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis, the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness, when applicable. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, the underlying hedged transaction is no longer likely to occur, the hedge designation is removed, or the derivative is terminated, the hedge accounting discussed above is discontinued.

Recently Adopted Standards and

Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards	Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards Recently Adopted Accounting Standards — In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new guidance which simplifies the accounting for share-based compensation arrangements, including the income tax consequences and classification on the statement of cash flows. Under the new guidance, excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies are recognized as a discrete component of the income tax provision in the period they occur and not as an adjustment to additional paid-in capital. Also, a company's payments for tax withholdings should be classified in the statement of cash flows as a financing activity. It also requires excess tax benefits to be recorded on the exercise or vesting of share-based awards at the time they are deductible for income taxes and not when they reduce cash taxes. In addition, a company can now elect to record forfeitures of share-based awards as they occur or record estimated forfeitures with a true-up at the end of the vesting period. We have elected to early adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2016. The adoption used the modified retrospective transition method which had no impact on prior years. The impact of adopting this guidance was to record $14.7 million of previously unrecognized tax benefits, increasing deferred tax assets and opening retained earnings. We have elected to adopt a policy of recording actual forfeitures, the impact of which is immaterial to current or prior periods. In August 2014, the FASB issued new guidance related to the disclosures around consideration of going concern. The new standard provides guidance around management's responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity's ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The new standard was effective for us January 1, 2016. The adoption of this standard did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Recently Issued Accounting Standards — In August 2016, the FASB issued new guidance related to classification of certain cash receipts and payments in the statement of cash flows. This new guidance was issued with the objective of reducing diversity in practice around eight specific types of cash flows. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued new guidance that changes the impairment model for most financial assets and certain other instruments. For trade and other receivables, held-to-maturity debt securities, loans and other instruments, entities will be required to use a new forward-looking “expected loss” model that will replace today’s “incurred loss” model and generally will result in the earlier recognition of allowances for losses. For available-for-sale debt securities with unrealized losses, entities will measure credit losses in a manner similar to current practice, except that the losses will be recognized as an allowance. The guidance is effective in 2020 with early adoption permitted in 2019. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our financial statements and the timing of adoption. In February 2016, the FASB issued new guidance on the accounting for leases. Under this guidance, lessees will be required to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the commencement date. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. In January 2016, the FASB issued new guidance on the recognition and measurement of financial instruments. This guidance primarily affects the accounting for equity method investments, financial liabilities under the fair value option and the presentation and disclosure requirements for financial instruments. The standard is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. We are currently evaluating the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements. In May 2014, the FASB issued new guidance on revenue recognition. Under this new standard, an entity shall recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The standard creates a five-step process that requires entities to exercise judgment when considering the terms of the contract(s) and all relevant facts and circumstances. This standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method and will be effective for us beginning in 2018. Early adoption is permitted in 2017. We are currently evaluating the impact this guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements and have not yet determined a transition method.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	Acquisitions Stitcher On June 6, 2016, we completed the acquisition of Stitcher for a cash purchase price of $4.5 million . Stitcher is a popular podcast listening service which facilitates discovery and streaming for more than 65,000 podcasts. Stitcher operates as part of Midroll Media, which significantly broadens Midroll's consumer base and technological capabilities. Of the $4.5 million purchase price, $2.9 million was allocated to intangible assets, the majority of which was technological software with an estimated amortization period of 3 years. The remainder of the purchase price was allocated to goodwill. Cracked On April 12, 2016, we acquired the multi-platform humor and satire brand Cracked, which informs and entertains millennial audiences with a website, original digital video, social media and a popular podcast. The purchase price was $39 million in cash. The final fair values of the assets acquired were $9.6 million of intangibles and $29.4 million of goodwill. Of the $9.6 million allocated to intangible assets, $7.6 million was for trade names with an estimated amortization period of 20 years. The remaining balance of $2.0 million was allocated to content library with an estimated amortization period of 3 years. The goodwill of $29 million arising from the transaction consists largely of the benefit we derive from being able to expand our presence and digital brands on the web, in over-the-top video and audio and on other emerging platforms. We allocated the goodwill to our digital segment. We treated the transaction as an asset acquisition for income tax purposes with a step-up in the assets acquired. The goodwill is deductible for income tax purposes. From the acquisition date of April 12, 2016 through September 30, 2016 , revenues from the acquired Cracked operations were $2.4 million . Midroll Media On July 22, 2015, we acquired Midroll Media, a company that creates original podcasts and operates a network that generates advertising revenue for more than 200 shows. The purchase price was $50 million in cash, plus a $10 million earnout payable over three years. We estimated the fair value of the earnout to be $7 million . The following table summarizes the final fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed: (in thousands) Assets: Cash $ 635 Accounts receivable 2,925 Other assets 482 Intangible assets 10,700 Goodwill 45,586 Total assets acquired 60,328 Current liabilities 3,365 Net purchase price $ 56,963 Of the $11 million allocated to intangible assets, $7 million was allocated to advertiser relationships with an estimated amortization period of 5 years and the remaining balance of $4 million was allocated to various other intangible assets. The goodwill of $ 46 million arising from the transaction consists largely of the benefit we derive from being able to enter the podcast market with an established business. We allocated the goodwill to our digital segment. We treated the transaction as an asset acquisition for income tax purposes with a step-up in the assets acquired. The goodwill is deductible for income tax purposes. Journal Communications Broadcast Group On April 1, 2015, we acquired the broadcast group owned by Journal Communications, Inc. ("Journal") as part of the transactions described in Note 17 . The businesses acquired included 12 television stations and 34 radio stations. We issued 26.4 million Class A Common shares to the Journal shareholders in exchange for their interest in Journal for a purchase price of $636 million . The fair value of the shares issued was determined on the basis of the closing market price of our Class A Common shares on April 1, 2015, the acquisition date. The following table summarizes the final fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed: (in thousands) Assets: Cash $ 2,529 Accounts receivable 47,978 Other current assets 2,236 Property, plant and equipment 123,264 Intangible assets 294,800 Goodwill 456,440 Other long-term assets 6,350 Assets held for sale 14,500 Total assets acquired 948,097 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 38,107 Employee benefit obligations 85,261 Deferred tax liability 57,112 Long-term debt 126,873 Other long-term liabilities 4,744 Net purchase price $ 636,000 Of the $295 million allocated to intangible assets, $112 million was for FCC licenses which we determined to have an indefinite life and, therefore, are not amortized. The remaining balance of $183 million was allocated to television network affiliation relationships and advertiser relationships with estimated amortization periods of 10 to 20 years. The goodwill of $456 million arising from the transaction consists largely of synergies and economies of scale and other benefits of a larger broadcast footprint. The goodwill was allocated to our television ( $395 million ), radio ( $41 million ) and digital ( $20 million ) segments. We treated the transaction as a stock acquisition for income tax purposes resulting in no step-up in the assets acquired. The goodwill is not deductible for income tax purposes. Concurrent with the acquisition of the Journal television stations, due to FCC conflict ownership rules, Journal was required to dispose of KNIN, the Fox affiliate located in Boise, ID. The station was placed in a divestiture trust for our benefit and was sold to Raycom Media, Inc. on October 1, 2015 for $14.5 million . The sale did not result in a gain or loss. Pro forma results of operations Pro forma results of operations, assuming the Journal transaction had taken place at the beginning of 2014, are included in the following table. The pro forma results do not include Midroll, Cracked or Stitcher as the impact of these acquisitions are not material to prior year results of operations. The pro forma information includes the historical results of operations of Scripps and Journal and adjustments for additional depreciation and amortization of the assets acquired, additional interest expense related to the financing of the transaction and reflects the transaction costs incurred in 2015 as if they were incurred in the first quarter of 2014. The weighted average shares utilized in calculating the earnings per share assumes that the shares issued to the Journal shareholders were issued on January 1, 2014. The pro forma information does not include efficiencies, cost reductions or synergies expected to result from the acquisition. The unaudited pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the results that actually would have occurred had the acquisition been completed at the beginning of the period. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands, except per share data) (unaudited) 2015 2015 Operating revenues $ 189,691 $ 573,310 Loss from continuing operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company (23,606 ) (17,028 ) Loss per share from operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company: Basic $ (0.27 ) $ (0.19 ) Diluted (0.27 ) (0.19 )

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes We file a consolidated federal income tax return, consolidated unitary tax returns in certain states and other separate state income tax returns for our subsidiary companies. The income tax provision for interim periods is generally determined based upon the expected effective income tax rate for the full year and the tax rate applicable to certain discrete transactions in the interim period. To determine the annual effective income tax rate, we must estimate both the total income (loss) before income tax for the full year and the jurisdictions in which that income (loss) is subject to tax. The actual effective income tax rate for the full year may differ from these estimates if income (loss) before income tax is greater than or less than what was estimated or if the allocation of income (loss) to jurisdictions in which it is taxed is different from the estimated allocations. We review and adjust our estimated effective income tax rate for the full year each quarter based upon our most recent estimates of income (loss) before income tax for the full year and the jurisdictions in which we expect that income will be taxed. The effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 was 35% and 26% , respectively. The primary reason for the difference between the year-to-date rates and the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35% is the impact of state taxes, non-deductible expenses (including a portion of transaction expense related to the Journal transactions in 2015), adjustments to reserves for uncertain tax positions (including interest) and excess tax benefits on share-based compensation ( $1.9 million in 2016). Deferred tax assets totaled $11 million at September 30, 2016 . Management believes that it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of our federal deferred tax assets and therefore has not recorded a valuation allowance for our federal deferred tax assets. If economic conditions worsen, future estimates of taxable income could be lower than our current estimates which may require valuation allowances to be recorded in future reporting periods. We recognize state net operating loss carryforwards as deferred tax assets, subject to valuation allowances. At each balance sheet date, we estimate the amount of carryforwards that are not expected to be used prior to expiration of the carryforward period. The tax effect of the carryforwards that are not expected to be used prior to their expiration is included in the valuation allowance. During the period ended September 30, 2015 , deferred tax assets relating to employee share-based awards from the vesting of RSUs and the exercise of stock options were not recognized since we were in a net tax loss position for the period. The additional tax benefits were reflected as net operating loss carryforwards on our tax returns, but the additional tax benefits were not recorded under GAAP until the tax deductions reduced taxes payable. The amount of unrecognized tax deductions for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 , was approximately $26 million . Effective January 1, 2016, we adopted new accounting guidance that allows us to recognize the benefits when deductible for tax purposes.

Other Charges and Credits

Other Charges and Credits	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Asset Write-Downs and Other Charges and Credits [Abstract]
Other Charges and Credits	Other Charges and Credits Acquisition and related integration costs of $0.6 million and $37.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively, and $4.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2015 , include costs for spinning off our newspaper operations and costs associated with acquisitions, such as legal and accounting fees, as well as costs to integrate acquired operations. In the third quarter of 2015, we recorded a $24.6 million non-cash charge to reduce the carrying value of our goodwill and certain intangible assets of Newsy and a smaller business. See Note 7 for additional information.

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Restricted Cash	Restricted Cash At September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , we had $5.5 million and $6.6 million , respectively, in a restricted cash account on deposit with our insurance carrier. This account serves as collateral, in place of an irrevocable stand-by letter of credit, to provide financial assurance that we will fulfill our obligations with respect to cash requirements associated with our workers compensation self-insurance. This cash is to remain on deposit with the carrier until all claims have been paid or we provide a letter of credit in lieu of the cash deposit.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill was as follows: (in thousands) Television Radio Digital Total Gross balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 681,535 $ 41,000 $ 101,166 $ 823,701 Accumulated impairment losses (215,414 ) — (22,500 ) (237,914 ) Net balance as of December 31, 2015 466,121 41,000 78,666 585,787 Cracked acquisition — — 29,403 29,403 Stitcher acquisition — — 1,590 1,590 Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 466,121 $ 41,000 $ 109,659 $ 616,780 Gross balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 681,535 $ 41,000 $ 132,159 $ 854,694 Accumulated impairment losses (215,414 ) — (22,500 ) (237,914 ) Net balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 466,121 $ 41,000 $ 109,659 $ 616,780 Other intangible assets consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Amortizable intangible assets: Carrying amount: Television network affiliation relationships $ 248,444 $ 248,444 Customer lists and advertiser relationships 56,100 56,100 Other 26,923 14,423 Total carrying amount 331,467 318,967 Accumulated amortization: Television network affiliation relationships (33,911 ) (24,590 ) Customer lists and advertiser relationships (22,976 ) (17,092 ) Other (4,806 ) (1,913 ) Total accumulated amortization (61,693 ) (43,595 ) Net amortizable intangible assets 269,774 275,372 Other indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses 203,815 203,815 Total other intangible assets $ 473,589 $ 479,187 Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for each of the next five years is $5.5 million for the remainder of 2016 , $21.9 million in 2017 , $21.4 million in 2018 , $19.7 million in 2019 , $18.6 million in 2020 , $16.4 million in 2021 , and $166.3 million in later years. Goodwill and other indefinite-lived assets are tested for impairment annually and any time events occur or conditions change that would indicate it is more likely than not the fair value of a reporting unit is below its carrying value. Such indicators of impairment include, but are not limited to, changes in business climate or other factors resulting in low cash flow related to such assets. The testing for impairment is a two-step process. The first step is the estimation of the fair value of each of the reporting units, which is then compared to their carrying values. If the fair value is less than the carrying value of the reporting unit then an impairment of goodwill may exist. Step two is then performed to determine the amount of impairment. During 2015, changes in the market for the distribution of video programming services, including the development of over-the-top distribution platforms such as Apple TV, Comcast Watchable, PlutoTV, Xumo, Roku and Sling, resulted in the need for additional investment in our digital news service, Newsy. The additional investment, combined with the slower development of our original revenue model, created indications of impairment of goodwill as of September 30, 2015. Under the two-step process required by GAAP, we estimated the fair value of Newsy. Fair values were determined using a combination of an income approach, which estimated fair value based upon future revenues, expenses and cash flows discounted to their present value, and a market approach, which estimated fair value using market multiples of various financial measures compared to a set of comparable public companies. The discounted cash flow approach utilized unobservable factors, such as projected revenues and expenses and a discount rate applied to the estimated cash flows. The determination of the discount rate was based on a cost of capital model, using a risk-free rate, adjusted by a stock-beta adjusted risk premium and a size premium. The inputs to the nonrecurring fair value determination of our reporting units were classified as Level 3 fair value measurements under GAAP. The valuation methodology and underlying financial information used to determine fair value required significant judgments to be made by management. These judgments included, but were not limited to, long-term projections of future financial performance and the selection of appropriate discount rates used to determine the present value of future cash flows. Changes in such estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could have produced significantly different results. We concluded that the fair value of Newsy did not exceed its carrying value as of September 30, 2015. As a result, we recorded a $21 million non-cash charge in the three months ended September 30, 2015 to reduce the carrying value of goodwill and $2.9 million to reduce the value of intangible assets. We also recorded a $1.5 million goodwill impairment charge on a second small business.

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Debt	Long-Term Debt Long-term debt consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Variable rate credit facility $ — $ — Term loan 391,500 394,500 Debt issuance costs on term loan (2,817 ) (3,325 ) Net term loan 388,683 391,175 Unsecured subordinated notes payable 7,968 7,968 Long-term debt 396,651 399,143 Current portion of long-term debt 9,312 6,656 Long-term debt (less current portion) $ 387,339 $ 392,487 Fair value of long-term debt * $ 401,043 $ 396,576 * Fair value of the term loan was estimated based on quoted private market transactions and is classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the unsecured promissory notes is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis using current market interest rates of comparable instruments and is classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Financing Agreement On April 1, 2015, we entered into a $500 million second amended revolving credit and term loan agreement ("Second Amended Financing Agreement") to amend the terms of our existing revolving credit and term loan agreement ("Amended Financing Agreement"), to add an incremental $200 million term loan B borrowing and to increase the line of credit by $25 million . The $400 million term loan B matures in November 2020 and the $100 million revolving credit facility matures in November 2018. The Second Amended Financing Agreement includes the maintenance of a net leverage ratio if we borrow more than 20% on the revolving credit facility. The term loan B requires that if we borrow additional amounts or make a permitted acquisition that we cannot exceed a stated net leverage ratio on a pro forma basis at the date of the transaction. The Second Amended Financing Agreement allows us to make restricted payments (dividends and share repurchases) up to $70 million plus additional amounts based on our financial results and condition. We can also make additional stock repurchases equal to the amount of proceeds that we receive from the exercise of stock options held by our employees. Additionally, we can make acquisitions as long as the pro forma net leverage ratio is less than 4.5 to 1.0 of assets. The Second Amended Financing Agreement in certain circumstances requires that we must use a portion of excess cash flow, and the proceeds from the sale, to repay debt. As of September 30, 2016 , we were not required to make additional principal payments based on excess cash flow. Any proceeds, up to a stipulated amount, that we receive from the upcoming FCC spectrum auction, should we choose to participate and our bid is accepted, will not be required to be used to pay down the term loan . Under the terms of the Second Amended Financing Agreement, we granted the lenders mortgages on certain of our real property, pledges of our equity interests in our subsidiaries and security interests in substantially all other personal property including cash, accounts receivables, and equipment. Interest is payable on the term loan B at rates based on LIBOR with a 0.75% floor, plus a fixed margin of 2.75% . Interest is payable on the revolving credit facility at rates based on LIBOR plus a margin based on our leverage ratio ranging from 2.25% to 2.75% . As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , the interest rate was 3.50% on the term loan B. The weighted-average interest rate on borrowings was 3.50% and 3.42% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Scheduled principal payments on the term loan at September 30, 2016 are: $1.0 million for the remainder of 2016 , $4.0 million in 2017 , $4.0 million in 2018 , $4.0 million in 2019 , and $378.5 million in 2020 . Commitment fees of 0.30% to 0.50% per annum, based on our leverage ratio, of the total unused commitment are payable under the revolving credit facility. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 , we had outstanding letters of credit totaling $0.8 million . Unsecured Subordinated Notes Payable The unsecured subordinated promissory notes bear interest at a rate of 7.25% per annum payable quarterly. The notes are payable in annual installments of $2.7 million through 2018, with no prepayment right.

Financial Instruments

Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Financial Instruments	Financial Instruments We are exposed to various market risks, including changes in interest rates. To manage risks associated with the volatility of changes in interest rates, we may enter into interest rate management instruments. We may utilize interest rate swaps to manage our interest expense exposure by fixing our interest rate on portions of our floating rate term loan. We have entered into a $75 million notional value interest rate swap expiring in December 2016. Under the terms of the swap, we pay a fixed interest rate of 1.08% and receive interest at a variable rate equal to 30 day LIBOR. We did not provide or receive any collateral for this contract. Fair Value of Derivative Instruments The notional amounts and fair values of derivative instruments are shown in the table below: As of September 30, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 Notional amount Fair value Notional amount Fair value (in thousands) Asset Liability (1) Asset Liability (1) Undesignated derivatives: Interest rate swap $ 75,000 $ — $ 99 $ 75,000 $ — $ 299 (1) Balance recorded as other liabilities in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Upon refinancing our term loan B in November 2013, this hedge no longer qualified as a cash flow hedge and gains and losses on the derivative are recorded in current period earnings. The balance in accumulated other comprehensive loss at the date of discontinuance of hedge accounting is being amortized into earnings on a straight-line basis through December 2016. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCL, gain $ 96 $ 96 $ 288 $ 288 Gain (loss) on derivative 136 (15 ) 200 (125 )

Fair Value Measurement

Fair Value Measurement	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement We measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis, such as cash equivalents and derivatives. The fair values of these financial assets and liabilities were determined based on three levels of inputs, of which the first two are considered observable and the last unobservable, that may be used to measure fair value. These levels of input are as follows: • Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. • Level 2 — Inputs, other than quoted market prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly. • Level 3 — Unobservable inputs based on our own assumptions. The following tables set forth our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 : As of September 30, 2016 (in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets/(Liabilities): Cash equivalents $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ — $ — Interest rate swap (99 ) — (99 ) — As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets/(Liabilities): Cash equivalents $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ — $ — Interest rate swap (299 ) — (299 ) —

Other Liabilities

Other Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Liabilities	Other Liabilities Other liabilities consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Employee compensation and benefits $ 18,536 $ 16,808 Liability for pension benefits 221,110 221,965 Liabilities for uncertain tax positions 3,445 3,492 Other 21,067 25,302 Other liabilities (less current portion) $ 264,158 $ 267,567

Supplemental Cash Flow Informat

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	Supplemental Cash Flow Information The following table presents additional information about the change in certain working capital accounts: Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net Accounts and notes receivable $ (12,586 ) $ (14,461 ) Transition services receivable, net — (2,473 ) Income taxes receivable/payable, net 3,437 (14,450 ) Accounts payable (768 ) (11,303 ) Accrued employee compensation and benefits (10,918 ) 2,059 Other accrued liabilities (4,475 ) (1,649 ) Other, net 3,698 (3,814 ) Total $ (21,612 ) $ (46,091 )

Employee Benefit Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Employee Benefit Plans	Employee Benefit Plans We sponsor two noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering certain Scripps employees that began employment prior to June 30, 2008, as well as certain former Journal Communications, Inc. ("Journal") employees. We also have two non-qualified Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans ("SERPs") covering Scripps employees and certain former Journal employees. Both of the defined benefit plans and the SERPs have frozen the accrual of future benefits. We sponsor a defined contribution plan covering substantially all non-union and certain union employees. We match a portion of employees' voluntary contributions to this plan. In connection with freezing the accrual of service credits under certain of our defined benefit pension plans, we began contributing additional amounts (referred to as transition credits) to certain employees' defined contribution retirement accounts ending in 2015. Other union-represented employees are covered by defined benefit pension plans jointly sponsored by us and the union, or by union-sponsored multi-employer plans. The components of the expense consisted of the following: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Interest cost $ 6,839 $ 8,169 $ 20,379 $ 22,797 Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses (4,616 ) (6,625 ) (13,812 ) (18,334 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 1,102 1,179 3,097 3,515 Curtailment — — — 1,080 Total for defined benefit plans 3,325 2,723 9,664 9,058 Multi-employer plans 42 43 127 140 SERPs 280 253 840 800 Defined contribution plans 2,073 2,094 6,347 7,805 Net periodic benefit cost 5,720 5,113 16,978 17,803 Allocated to discontinued operations — — — (1,096 ) Net periodic benefit cost — continuing operations $ 5,720 $ 5,113 $ 16,978 $ 16,707 We contributed $0.8 million to fund current benefit payments for our SERPs and $7.6 million for our defined benefit pension plans during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 . During the remainder of 2016 , we anticipate contributing an additional $0.3 million to fund the SERPs' benefit payments and an additional $1 million to $2 million to fund our qualified defined benefit pension plans. In the second quarter of 2015, a one-time curtailment charge of $1.1 million was recorded related to our defined benefit pension plan as a result of the impact of the spin-off of our Newspaper business.

Segment Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	Segment Information We determine our business segments based upon our management and internal reporting structures. Our reportable segments are strategic businesses that offer different products and services. Our television segment includes 15 ABC affiliates, five NBC affiliates, two FOX affiliates, two CBS affiliates and four non big-four affiliated stations. We also own five Azteca America Spanish-language affiliates. Our television stations reach approximately 18% of the nation’s television households. Television stations earn revenue primarily from the sale of advertising time to local, national and political advertisers and retransmission fees received from cable operators and satellite carriers. Our radio segment consists of 34 radio stations in eight markets. We operate 28 FM stations and six AM stations. Our radio stations earn revenue primarily from the sale of advertising to local advertisers. Our digital segment includes the digital operations of our local television and radio businesses. It also includes the operations of our national digital businesses of Newsy, an over-the-top ("OTT") video news service, Cracked, the multi-platform humor and satire brand, and Midroll, a podcast industry leader. Our digital operations earn revenue primarily through the sale of advertising and marketing services. Syndication and other primarily includes the syndication of news features and comics and other features for the newspaper industry. We allocate a portion of certain corporate costs and expenses, including information technology, certain employee benefits and shared services, to our business segments. The allocations are generally amounts agreed upon by management, which may differ from an arms-length amount. Corporate assets are primarily cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, property and equipment primarily used for corporate purposes, and deferred income taxes. Our chief operating decision maker evaluates the operating performance of our business segments and makes decisions about the allocation of resources to our business segments using a measure called segment profit. Segment profit excludes interest, defined benefit pension plan expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, impairment charges, divested operating units, restructuring activities, investment results and certain other items that are included in net income (loss) determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Information regarding our business segments is as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Segment operating revenues: Television $ 197,283 $ 157,437 $ 568,932 $ 439,049 Radio 19,301 20,421 52,087 39,834 Digital 15,754 10,861 43,287 25,698 Syndication and other 702 972 6,049 6,267 Total operating revenues $ 233,040 $ 189,691 $ 670,355 $ 510,848 Segment profit (loss): Television $ 58,305 $ 31,707 $ 153,290 $ 98,357 Radio 2,528 4,073 8,574 8,981 Digital (5,633 ) (3,639 ) (13,481 ) (13,210 ) Syndication and other (832 ) (572 ) (984 ) (1,229 ) Shared services and corporate (8,520 ) (8,658 ) (32,686 ) (33,701 ) Defined benefit pension plan expense (3,605 ) (2,976 ) (10,504 ) (9,782 ) Acquisition and related integration costs — (4,206 ) (578 ) (36,953 ) Depreciation and amortization of intangibles (14,892 ) (16,273 ) (44,089 ) (37,934 ) Impairment of goodwill and intangibles — (24,613 ) — (24,613 ) Losses, net on disposal of property and equipment (26 ) (200 ) (44 ) (579 ) Interest expense (4,592 ) (4,246 ) (13,603 ) (10,523 ) Miscellaneous, net (596 ) 1,061 (1,245 ) 12 Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes $ 22,137 $ (28,542 ) $ 44,650 $ (61,174 ) Depreciation: Television $ 7,120 $ 9,765 $ 22,517 $ 22,389 Radio 653 554 1,733 1,103 Digital 40 132 148 394 Syndication and other 67 66 196 195 Shared services and corporate 527 575 1,397 1,802 Total depreciation $ 8,407 $ 11,092 $ 25,991 $ 25,883 Amortization of intangibles: Television $ 4,239 $ 4,262 $ 12,718 $ 10,412 Radio 265 280 795 560 Digital 1,643 639 3,570 1,079 Shared services and corporate 338 — 1,015 — Total amortization of intangibles $ 6,485 $ 5,181 $ 18,098 $ 12,051 Additions to property and equipment: Television $ 6,618 $ 5,607 $ 16,248 $ 13,350 Radio 628 623 944 639 Digital 34 46 51 46 Syndication and other 74 7 115 76 Shared services and corporate 643 190 967 1,133 Total additions to property and equipment $ 7,997 $ 6,473 $ 18,325 $ 15,244 No single customer provides more than 10% of our revenue.

Capital Stock

Capital Stock	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Capital Stock	Capital Stock Capital Stock — We have two classes of common shares, Common Voting shares and Class A Common shares. The Class A Common shares are only entitled to vote on the election of the greater of three or one-third of the directors and other matters as required by Ohio law. Share Repurchase Plan — In May 2014, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program of up to $100 million of our Class A Common shares through December 2016. Shares may be repurchased from time to time at management's discretion, either in the open market, through pre-arranged trading plans or in privately negotiated block transactions. Under the authorization, we repurchased $29.7 million of shares at prices ranging from $14.71 to $19.51 per share during the first nine months of 2016 . For the nine months ended September 30, 2015 , we repurchased $10.9 million of shares at prices ranging from $15.90 to $24.08 per share. At September 30, 2016 , $54.1 million remained under this authorization.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCL") by component, including items reclassified out of AOCL, were as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, June 30, 2016 $ (124 ) $ (88,458 ) $ 166 $ (88,416 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $37 (a) 59 — — 59 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $436 (b) — 706 (7 ) 699 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 59 706 (7 ) 758 Ending balance, September 30, 2016 $ (65 ) $ (87,752 ) $ 159 $ (87,658 ) Three Months Ended September 30, 2015 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, June 30, 2015 $ (360 ) $ (125,524 ) $ 11 $ (125,873 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $37 (a) 59 — — 59 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $471 (b) — 762 — 762 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 59 762 — 821 Ending balance, September 30, 2015 $ (301 ) $ (124,762 ) $ 11 $ (125,052 ) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, December 31, 2015 $ (242 ) $ (89,740 ) $ 180 $ (89,802 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $111 (a) 177 — — 177 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $1,229 (b) — 1,988 (21 ) 1,967 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 177 1,988 (21 ) 2,144 Ending balance, September 30, 2016 $ (65 ) $ (87,752 ) $ 159 $ (87,658 ) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, December 31, 2014 $ (479 ) $ (125,877 ) $ (87 ) $ (126,443 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $110 (a) 178 — — 178 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $(740) (b) — (1,197 ) 84 (1,113 ) Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 178 (1,197 ) 84 (935 ) Spin-off of Newspapers, net of tax of $1,517 — 2,312 14 2,326 Ending balance, September 30, 2015 $ (301 ) $ (124,762 ) $ 11 $ (125,052 ) (a) Interest rate swap amortization is included in interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (b) Actuarial gain (loss) is included in defined benefit pension plan expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

Journal Broadcast Merger and Ne

Journal Broadcast Merger and Newspaper Spin-off (Discontinued Operations) (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Journal Broadcast Merger and Newspaper Spin-off	Journal Broadcast Merger and Newspaper Spin-off (Discontinued Operations) On July 30, 2014, Scripps and Journal Communications, Inc. ("Journal") agreed to merge their broadcast operations and spin-off their newspaper businesses and combine them into a separate publicly traded company. On April 1, 2015, Scripps and Journal separated their respective newspaper businesses and merged them, resulting in each becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of Journal Media Group, Inc. Journal Media Group combined the 13 Scripps newspapers with Journal's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel . Immediately following the spin-off and merger of the newspaper businesses, the Journal broadcast operations and its related digital business were merged into Scripps. As part of the transactions, Scripps' shareholders received a $60 million special cash dividend on April 1, 2015. Certain agreements between Scripps and Journal Media Group, Inc. became effective in connection with the transactions, including Tax Matters Agreements and a Transition Services Agreement. Under the Transition Services Agreement, Scripps and Journal Media Group provided certain services to each other through March 31, 2016. The fees for the services were at arm's-length amounts. The outstanding balance on the agreement was settled as of June 30, 2016. For the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the amounts we received from Journal Media Group and the amounts we paid to Journal Media Group were immaterial. For the nine months ended September 30, 2015 , we received $2.5 million for services provided to Journal Media Group and we paid Journal Media Group $0.9 million for services provided to us. The Tax Matters Agreements set forth the allocations and responsibilities of Scripps and Journal Media Group with respect to liabilities for federal, state and local income taxes for periods before and after the spin-off, disputes with taxing authorities and indemnification of income taxes that would become due if the spin-off were taxable. Generally, Scripps is responsible for taxes prior to the separation and Journal Media Group will be responsible for taxes for periods after the separation of their respective businesses. Until the completion of the spin-off of our newspaper business, generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) required us to assess impairment of the newspaper business long-lived assets using the held-and-used model. Under this model, if the expected cash flows over the life of the primary asset of the reporting unit are in excess of the carrying amount there is no impairment. Under this model no impairment charges were recorded at March 31, 2015. At the date of the spin-off of our newspaper business, GAAP required us to assess impairment using the held-for-sale model. This model compares the fair value of the disposal unit to its carrying value and if the fair value is lower, then an impairment loss is recorded. Our analysis determined that as of April 1, 2015 there was a non-cash impairment loss on disposal of the newspaper business of $30 million , which was recorded on the date of the spin-off, April 1, 2015, which was included in discontinued operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015. The inputs to the nonrecurring determination of the fair value of the disposal unit are classified as Level 2 measurements under GAAP. As a result of the spin-off, Scripps newspapers has been presented as discontinued operations in the financial statements for all periods presented. Operating results of our discontinued operations were as follows: Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2015 Operating revenues $ 91,478 Total costs and expenses (79,517 ) Depreciation and amortization of intangibles (3,608 ) Other, net (3,298 ) Loss on disposal of Scripps Newspapers (30,000 ) Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes (24,945 ) Benefit for income taxes 9,513 Net loss from discontinued operations $ (15,432 ) The Company incurred certain non-recurring costs directly related to the spin-off of our newspapers and acquisition of the Journal broadcast stations of $4 million and $40 million for the quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2015 , respectively. Accounting and other professional and consulting fees directly related to the newspaper spin-off of $3 million were allocated to discontinued operations in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. The remaining amount of $37 million was recorded in earnings from continuing operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2015 .

Summary of Significant Accoun27

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation — The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. The interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto included in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. In management's opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods have been made. Results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for future interim periods or for the full year. Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period's presentation.
Nature of Operations	Nature of Operations — We are a diverse media enterprise with a portfolio of television, radio and digital media brands. All of our media businesses provide content and advertising services via digital platforms, including the Internet, smartphones and tablets. Our media businesses are organized into the following reportable business segments: television, radio, digital, and syndication and other. Additional information for our business segments is presented in the Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. On April 1, 2015, we distributed our newspaper business to our shareholders in a tax-free spin-off. See Note 17 for information on the spin-off.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates — Preparing financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make a variety of decisions that affect the reported amounts and the related disclosures. Such decisions include the selection of accounting principles that reflect the economic substance of the underlying transactions and the assumptions on which to base accounting estimates. In reaching such decisions, we apply judgment based on our understanding and analysis of the relevant circumstances, including our historical experience, actuarial studies and other assumptions. Our financial statements include estimates and assumptions used in accounting for our defined benefit pension plans; the periods over which long-lived assets are depreciated or amortized; the fair value of long-lived assets, goodwill and indefinite lived assets; the liability for uncertain tax positions and valuation allowances against deferred income tax assets; the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business combinations; and self-insured risks. While we re-evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis, actual results could differ from those estimated at the time of preparation of the financial statements.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition — We recognize revenue when persuasive evidence of a sales arrangement exists, delivery occurs or services are rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. When a sales arrangement contains multiple elements, such as the sale of advertising and other services, we allocate revenue to each element based upon its relative fair value. We report revenue net of sales and other taxes collected from our customers. Our primary sources of revenue are from the sale of broadcast and digital advertising, as well as retransmission fees received from cable operators and satellite carriers. The revenue recognition policies for each source of revenue are described in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation — We have a Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) which is described more fully in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 . The Plan provides for the award of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock units (RSUs), unrestricted Class A Common shares and performance units to key employees and non-employee directors. Share-based compensation costs totaled $(0.5) million and $1.4 million for the third quarter of 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Year-to-date share-based compensation costs totaled $6.7 million and $8.5 million in 2016 and 2015 , respectively, of which $1.1 million for 2015 is included in discontinued operations. The credit balance for the third quarter of 2016 is due to an adjustment of our performance based share expense due to changes in our estimate of the number of shares that will vest.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)	Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) — Unvested awards of share-based payments with rights to receive dividends or dividend equivalents, such as our RSUs, are considered participating securities for purposes of calculating EPS. Under the two-class method, we allocate a portion of net income to these participating securities and therefore exclude that income from the calculation of EPS for common stock. We do not allocate losses to the participating securities.
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments — It is our policy that derivative transactions are executed only to manage exposures arising in the normal course of business and not for the purpose of creating speculative positions or trading. Derivative financial instruments are utilized to manage interest rate risks. We do not hold derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. All derivatives must be recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. Each derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge or remains undesignated. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and effective as cash flow hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transactions affected earnings. These changes are offset in earnings to the extent the hedge was effective by fair value changes related to the risk being hedged on the hedged item. Changes in the fair value of undesignated hedges are recognized currently in earnings. All ineffective changes in derivative fair values are recognized currently in earnings. All designated hedges are formally documented as to the relationship with the hedged item as well as the risk-management strategy. Both at inception and on an ongoing basis, the hedging instrument is assessed as to its effectiveness, when applicable. If and when a derivative is determined not to be highly effective as a hedge, the underlying hedged transaction is no longer likely to occur, the hedge designation is removed, or the derivative is terminated, the hedge accounting discussed above is discontinued.

Summary of Significant Accoun28

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Components of basic and diluted weighted-average shares	The following table presents information about basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Numerator (for basic and diluted earnings per share) Income (loss) from continuing operations $ 12,522 $ (24,443 ) $ 28,898 $ (45,513 ) Less income allocated to RSUs (174 ) — (373 ) — Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations $ 12,348 $ (24,443 ) $ 28,525 $ (45,513 ) Denominator Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 83,230 84,107 83,654 75,213 Effect of dilutive securities: Stock options held by employees and directors 288 — 306 — Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 83,518 84,107 83,960 75,213 Anti-dilutive securities (1) — 2,148 — 2,148 (1) Amount outstanding at balance sheet date, before application of the treasury stock method and not weighted for period outstanding.

Acquisitions (Tables)

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions [Line Items]
Pro forma results of operations	Pro forma results of operations, assuming the Journal transaction had taken place at the beginning of 2014, are included in the following table. The pro forma results do not include Midroll, Cracked or Stitcher as the impact of these acquisitions are not material to prior year results of operations. The pro forma information includes the historical results of operations of Scripps and Journal and adjustments for additional depreciation and amortization of the assets acquired, additional interest expense related to the financing of the transaction and reflects the transaction costs incurred in 2015 as if they were incurred in the first quarter of 2014. The weighted average shares utilized in calculating the earnings per share assumes that the shares issued to the Journal shareholders were issued on January 1, 2014. The pro forma information does not include efficiencies, cost reductions or synergies expected to result from the acquisition. The unaudited pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the results that actually would have occurred had the acquisition been completed at the beginning of the period. Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands, except per share data) (unaudited) 2015 2015 Operating revenues $ 189,691 $ 573,310 Loss from continuing operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company (23,606 ) (17,028 ) Loss per share from operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company: Basic $ (0.27 ) $ (0.19 ) Diluted (0.27 ) (0.19 )
Midroll Media
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions [Line Items]
Fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed	The following table summarizes the final fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed: (in thousands) Assets: Cash $ 635 Accounts receivable 2,925 Other assets 482 Intangible assets 10,700 Goodwill 45,586 Total assets acquired 60,328 Current liabilities 3,365 Net purchase price $ 56,963
Journal Communications, Inc.
Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions [Line Items]
Fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed	The following table summarizes the final fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed: (in thousands) Assets: Cash $ 2,529 Accounts receivable 47,978 Other current assets 2,236 Property, plant and equipment 123,264 Intangible assets 294,800 Goodwill 456,440 Other long-term assets 6,350 Assets held for sale 14,500 Total assets acquired 948,097 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 38,107 Employee benefit obligations 85,261 Deferred tax liability 57,112 Long-term debt 126,873 Other long-term liabilities 4,744 Net purchase price $ 636,000

Goodwill and Other Intangible30

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill	Goodwill was as follows: (in thousands) Television Radio Digital Total Gross balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 681,535 $ 41,000 $ 101,166 $ 823,701 Accumulated impairment losses (215,414 ) — (22,500 ) (237,914 ) Net balance as of December 31, 2015 466,121 41,000 78,666 585,787 Cracked acquisition — — 29,403 29,403 Stitcher acquisition — — 1,590 1,590 Balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 466,121 $ 41,000 $ 109,659 $ 616,780 Gross balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 681,535 $ 41,000 $ 132,159 $ 854,694 Accumulated impairment losses (215,414 ) — (22,500 ) (237,914 ) Net balance as of September 30, 2016 $ 466,121 $ 41,000 $ 109,659 $ 616,780
Summary of other finite-lived intangible assets	Other intangible assets consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Amortizable intangible assets: Carrying amount: Television network affiliation relationships $ 248,444 $ 248,444 Customer lists and advertiser relationships 56,100 56,100 Other 26,923 14,423 Total carrying amount 331,467 318,967 Accumulated amortization: Television network affiliation relationships (33,911 ) (24,590 ) Customer lists and advertiser relationships (22,976 ) (17,092 ) Other (4,806 ) (1,913 ) Total accumulated amortization (61,693 ) (43,595 ) Net amortizable intangible assets 269,774 275,372 Other indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses 203,815 203,815 Total other intangible assets $ 473,589 $ 479,187
Summary of other indefinite-lived intangible assets	Other intangible assets consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Amortizable intangible assets: Carrying amount: Television network affiliation relationships $ 248,444 $ 248,444 Customer lists and advertiser relationships 56,100 56,100 Other 26,923 14,423 Total carrying amount 331,467 318,967 Accumulated amortization: Television network affiliation relationships (33,911 ) (24,590 ) Customer lists and advertiser relationships (22,976 ) (17,092 ) Other (4,806 ) (1,913 ) Total accumulated amortization (61,693 ) (43,595 ) Net amortizable intangible assets 269,774 275,372 Other indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses 203,815 203,815 Total other intangible assets $ 473,589 $ 479,187

Long-Term Debt (Tables)

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Long-term debt	Long-term debt consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Variable rate credit facility $ — $ — Term loan 391,500 394,500 Debt issuance costs on term loan (2,817 ) (3,325 ) Net term loan 388,683 391,175 Unsecured subordinated notes payable 7,968 7,968 Long-term debt 396,651 399,143 Current portion of long-term debt 9,312 6,656 Long-term debt (less current portion) $ 387,339 $ 392,487 Fair value of long-term debt * $ 401,043 $ 396,576 * Fair value of the term loan was estimated based on quoted private market transactions and is classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the unsecured promissory notes is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis using current market interest rates of comparable instruments and is classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Financial Instruments (Tables)

Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Notional amounts and fair values of derivatives	The notional amounts and fair values of derivative instruments are shown in the table below: As of September 30, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 Notional amount Fair value Notional amount Fair value (in thousands) Asset Liability (1) Asset Liability (1) Undesignated derivatives: Interest rate swap $ 75,000 $ — $ 99 $ 75,000 $ — $ 299 (1) Balance recorded as other liabilities in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
Effective portion of the unrealized gain and loss on the derivative	Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCL, gain $ 96 $ 96 $ 288 $ 288 Gain (loss) on derivative 136 (15 ) 200 (125 )

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)

Fair Value Measurement (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis	The following tables set forth our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 : As of September 30, 2016 (in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets/(Liabilities): Cash equivalents $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ — $ — Interest rate swap (99 ) — (99 ) — As of December 31, 2015 (in thousands) Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets/(Liabilities): Cash equivalents $ 5,000 $ 5,000 $ — $ — Interest rate swap (299 ) — (299 ) —

Other Liabilities (Tables)

Other Liabilities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]
Other liabilities	Other liabilities consisted of the following: (in thousands) As of As of Employee compensation and benefits $ 18,536 $ 16,808 Liability for pension benefits 221,110 221,965 Liabilities for uncertain tax positions 3,445 3,492 Other 21,067 25,302 Other liabilities (less current portion) $ 264,158 $ 267,567

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform35

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Change in certain working capital accounts	The following table presents additional information about the change in certain working capital accounts: Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net Accounts and notes receivable $ (12,586 ) $ (14,461 ) Transition services receivable, net — (2,473 ) Income taxes receivable/payable, net 3,437 (14,450 ) Accounts payable (768 ) (11,303 ) Accrued employee compensation and benefits (10,918 ) 2,059 Other accrued liabilities (4,475 ) (1,649 ) Other, net 3,698 (3,814 ) Total $ (21,612 ) $ (46,091 )

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of benefit expense	The components of the expense consisted of the following: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Interest cost $ 6,839 $ 8,169 $ 20,379 $ 22,797 Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses (4,616 ) (6,625 ) (13,812 ) (18,334 ) Amortization of actuarial loss 1,102 1,179 3,097 3,515 Curtailment — — — 1,080 Total for defined benefit plans 3,325 2,723 9,664 9,058 Multi-employer plans 42 43 127 140 SERPs 280 253 840 800 Defined contribution plans 2,073 2,094 6,347 7,805 Net periodic benefit cost 5,720 5,113 16,978 17,803 Allocated to discontinued operations — — — (1,096 ) Net periodic benefit cost — continuing operations $ 5,720 $ 5,113 $ 16,978 $ 16,707

Segment Information (Tables)

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Information regarding business segments	Information regarding our business segments is as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2016 2015 2016 2015 Segment operating revenues: Television $ 197,283 $ 157,437 $ 568,932 $ 439,049 Radio 19,301 20,421 52,087 39,834 Digital 15,754 10,861 43,287 25,698 Syndication and other 702 972 6,049 6,267 Total operating revenues $ 233,040 $ 189,691 $ 670,355 $ 510,848 Segment profit (loss): Television $ 58,305 $ 31,707 $ 153,290 $ 98,357 Radio 2,528 4,073 8,574 8,981 Digital (5,633 ) (3,639 ) (13,481 ) (13,210 ) Syndication and other (832 ) (572 ) (984 ) (1,229 ) Shared services and corporate (8,520 ) (8,658 ) (32,686 ) (33,701 ) Defined benefit pension plan expense (3,605 ) (2,976 ) (10,504 ) (9,782 ) Acquisition and related integration costs — (4,206 ) (578 ) (36,953 ) Depreciation and amortization of intangibles (14,892 ) (16,273 ) (44,089 ) (37,934 ) Impairment of goodwill and intangibles — (24,613 ) — (24,613 ) Losses, net on disposal of property and equipment (26 ) (200 ) (44 ) (579 ) Interest expense (4,592 ) (4,246 ) (13,603 ) (10,523 ) Miscellaneous, net (596 ) 1,061 (1,245 ) 12 Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes $ 22,137 $ (28,542 ) $ 44,650 $ (61,174 ) Depreciation: Television $ 7,120 $ 9,765 $ 22,517 $ 22,389 Radio 653 554 1,733 1,103 Digital 40 132 148 394 Syndication and other 67 66 196 195 Shared services and corporate 527 575 1,397 1,802 Total depreciation $ 8,407 $ 11,092 $ 25,991 $ 25,883 Amortization of intangibles: Television $ 4,239 $ 4,262 $ 12,718 $ 10,412 Radio 265 280 795 560 Digital 1,643 639 3,570 1,079 Shared services and corporate 338 — 1,015 — Total amortization of intangibles $ 6,485 $ 5,181 $ 18,098 $ 12,051 Additions to property and equipment: Television $ 6,618 $ 5,607 $ 16,248 $ 13,350 Radio 628 623 944 639 Digital 34 46 51 46 Syndication and other 74 7 115 76 Shared services and corporate 643 190 967 1,133 Total additions to property and equipment $ 7,997 $ 6,473 $ 18,325 $ 15,244

Accumulated Other Comprehensi38

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss ("AOCL") by component, including items reclassified out of AOCL, were as follows: Three Months Ended September 30, 2016 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, June 30, 2016 $ (124 ) $ (88,458 ) $ 166 $ (88,416 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $37 (a) 59 — — 59 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $436 (b) — 706 (7 ) 699 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 59 706 (7 ) 758 Ending balance, September 30, 2016 $ (65 ) $ (87,752 ) $ 159 $ (87,658 ) Three Months Ended September 30, 2015 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, June 30, 2015 $ (360 ) $ (125,524 ) $ 11 $ (125,873 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $37 (a) 59 — — 59 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $471 (b) — 762 — 762 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 59 762 — 821 Ending balance, September 30, 2015 $ (301 ) $ (124,762 ) $ 11 $ (125,052 ) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2016 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, December 31, 2015 $ (242 ) $ (89,740 ) $ 180 $ (89,802 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $111 (a) 177 — — 177 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $1,229 (b) — 1,988 (21 ) 1,967 Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 177 1,988 (21 ) 2,144 Ending balance, September 30, 2016 $ (65 ) $ (87,752 ) $ 159 $ (87,658 ) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2015 (in thousands) Gains and Losses on Derivatives Defined Benefit Pension Items Other Total Beginning balance, December 31, 2014 $ (479 ) $ (125,877 ) $ (87 ) $ (126,443 ) Other comprehensive income before reclassifications — — — — Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Interest rate swap, net of tax of $110 (a) 178 — — 178 Actuarial gain (loss), net of tax of $(740) (b) — (1,197 ) 84 (1,113 ) Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 178 (1,197 ) 84 (935 ) Spin-off of Newspapers, net of tax of $1,517 — 2,312 14 2,326 Ending balance, September 30, 2015 $ (301 ) $ (124,762 ) $ 11 $ (125,052 ) (a) Interest rate swap amortization is included in interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (b) Actuarial gain (loss) is included in defined benefit pension plan expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

Journal Broadcast Merger and 39

Journal Broadcast Merger and Newspaper Spin-off (Discontinued Operations) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations, Operating Results and Net Assets Distributed	Operating results of our discontinued operations were as follows: Nine Months Ended (in thousands) 2015 Operating revenues $ 91,478 Total costs and expenses (79,517 ) Depreciation and amortization of intangibles (3,608 ) Other, net (3,298 ) Loss on disposal of Scripps Newspapers (30,000 ) Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes (24,945 ) Benefit for income taxes 9,513 Net loss from discontinued operations $ (15,432 )

Summary of Significant Accoun40

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation costs	$ (0.5)	$ 1.4	$ 6.7	$ 8.5
Discontinued Operations
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation costs				$ 1.1

Summary of Significant Accoun41

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Earnings Per Share (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Numerator (for basic and diluted earnings per share)
Income (loss) from continuing operations		$ 12,522	$ (24,443)	$ 28,898	$ (45,513)
Less income allocated to RSUs		174	0	373	0
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations		$ 12,348	$ (24,443)	$ 28,525	$ (45,513)
Denominator
Basic weighted-average shares outstanding		83,230	84,107	83,654	75,213
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options held by employees and directors		288	0	306	0
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding		83,518	84,107	83,960	75,213
Anti-dilutive securities	[1]	0	2,148	0	2,148
[1]	(1) Amount outstanding at balance sheet date, before application of the treasury stock method and not weighted for period outstanding

Recently Adopted Standards an42

Recently Adopted Standards and Issued Accounting Standards (Details) $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Deferred Taxes | Share Based Compensation Arrangements
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits	$ 14.7

Acquisitions - Narrative (Detai

Acquisitions - Narrative (Details)	Jun. 06, 2016USD ($)show	Apr. 12, 2016USD ($)	Oct. 01, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 22, 2015USD ($)show	Apr. 01, 2015USD ($)radio_stationtelevision_stationshares	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)shares	Sep. 30, 2015shares	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill						$ 616,780,000	$ 616,780,000		$ 585,787,000
Number of shares issued in business acquisition | shares							0	26,350,993
KNIN | Raycom Media, Inc.
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Business disposition, consideration to be received			$ 14,500,000
Television
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill						466,121,000	$ 466,121,000		466,121,000
Radio
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill						41,000,000	41,000,000		41,000,000
Digital
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill						109,659,000	109,659,000		$ 78,666,000
Stitcher
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Business acquisition, purchase price	$ 4,500,000
Number of podcast shows (more than) | show	65,000
Intangible assets	$ 2,900,000
Goodwill acquisition							1,590,000
Stitcher | Television
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition							0
Stitcher | Radio
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition							0
Stitcher | Digital
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition							1,590,000
Stitcher | Computer Software, Intangible Asset
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period	3 years
Cracked
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Business acquisition, purchase price		$ 39,000,000
Intangible assets		9,600,000
Goodwill		29,000,000
Operating revenues						$ 2,400,000
Goodwill acquisition							29,403,000
Cracked | Television
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition							0
Cracked | Radio
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition							0
Cracked | Digital
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition							$ 29,403,000
Cracked | Trade Names
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible assets		$ 7,600,000
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period		20 years
Cracked | Media Content
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible assets		$ 2,000,000
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period		3 years
Midroll Media
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Business acquisition, purchase price				$ 50,000,000
Number of podcast shows (more than) | show				200
Intangible assets				$ 10,700,000
Goodwill				45,586,000
Business acquisition, earnout provision				$ 10,000,000
Earnout provision, payment term				3 years
Earnout provision, fair value				$ 7,000,000
Midroll Media | Advertiser relationships
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible assets				$ 7,000,000
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period				5 years
Midroll Media | Other intangible assets
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible assets				$ 4,000,000
Journal Communications, Inc.
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Business acquisition, purchase price					$ 636,000,000
Intangible assets					294,800,000
Goodwill					$ 456,440,000
Number of television stations acquired | television_station					12
Number of radio stations acquired | radio_station					34
Journal Communications, Inc. | Television
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition					$ 395,000,000
Journal Communications, Inc. | Radio
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition					41,000,000
Journal Communications, Inc. | Digital
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Goodwill acquisition					20,000,000
Journal Communications, Inc. | FCC licenses
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible assets					$ 112,000,000
Journal Communications, Inc. | Common Stock | Common stock, Class A
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Number of shares issued in business acquisition | shares					26,400,000
Journal Communications, Inc. | Retransmission agreements, television network affiliate relationships and advertiser relationships
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible assets					$ 183,000,000
Journal Communications, Inc. | Retransmission agreements, television network affiliate relationships and advertiser relationships | Minimum
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period					10 years
Journal Communications, Inc. | Retransmission agreements, television network affiliate relationships and advertiser relationships | Maximum
Acquisitions (Textual) [Abstract]
Intangible asset, estimated amortization period					20 years

Acquisitions - Fair Value of As

Acquisitions - Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Apr. 12, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Jul. 22, 2015	Apr. 01, 2015
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Goodwill	$ 616,780		$ 585,787
Cracked
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Intangible assets		$ 9,600
Goodwill		$ 29,000
Midroll Media
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Cash				$ 635
Accounts receivable				2,925
Intangible assets				10,700
Goodwill				45,586
Other long-term assets				482
Total assets acquired				60,328
Current liabilities				3,365
Net purchase price				$ 56,963
Journal Communications, Inc.
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract]
Cash					$ 2,529
Accounts receivable					47,978
Other assets					2,236
Property, plant and equipment					123,264
Intangible assets					294,800
Goodwill					456,440
Other long-term assets					6,350
Assets held for sale					14,500
Total assets acquired					948,097
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities					38,107
Employee benefit obligations					85,261
Long-term deferred liability					57,112
Long-term debt					126,873
Other long-term liabilities					4,744
Net purchase price					$ 636,000

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Disclo

Acquisitions - Pro Forma Disclosures (Details) - Journal Communications, Inc. - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]
Operating revenues	$ 189,691	$ 573,310
Loss from continuing operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company	$ (23,606)	$ (17,028)
Income per share from operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company - Basic (in dollars per share)	$ (0.27)	$ (0.19)
Income per share from operations attributable to the shareholders of The E.W. Scripps Company - Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (0.27)	$ (0.19)

Income Taxes - Narrative (Detai

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective income tax rate	35.00%	26.00%
U.S. Federal statutory rate	35.00%	35.00%
Excess tax benefits on share-based compensation	$ 1.9
Deferred tax assets	$ 11
Unrecognized deductions for share based compensation awards		$ 26

Other Charges and Credits - Nar

Other Charges and Credits - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and related integration costs	$ 0	$ 4,206	$ 578	$ 36,953
Impairment of goodwill and intangibles	$ 0	24,613	0	24,613
Journal Communications, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Acquisition and related integration costs		$ 4,200	$ 600	$ 37,000

Restricted Cash - Narrative (De

Restricted Cash - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Restricted cash	$ 5,460	$ 6,560

Goodwill and Other Intangible49

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 01, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross		$ 854,694	$ 823,701
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss		(237,914)	(237,914)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance		585,787
Goodwill, ending balance		616,780
Cracked
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		29,403
Stitcher
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		1,590
Journal Communications, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, ending balance	$ 456,440
Television
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross		681,535	681,535
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss		(215,414)	(215,414)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance		466,121
Goodwill, ending balance		466,121
Television | Cracked
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		0
Television | Stitcher
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		0
Television | Journal Communications, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition	395,000
Radio
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross		41,000	41,000
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss		0	0
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance		41,000
Goodwill, ending balance		41,000
Radio | Cracked
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		0
Radio | Stitcher
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		0
Radio | Journal Communications, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition	41,000
Digital
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Gross		132,159	101,166
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss		(22,500)	$ (22,500)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, beginning balance		78,666
Goodwill, ending balance		109,659
Digital | Cracked
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		29,403
Digital | Stitcher
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition		$ 1,590
Digital | Journal Communications, Inc.
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill acquisition	$ 20,000

Goodwill and Other Intangible50

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Summary of other intangible assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Carrying amount:
Total carrying amount	$ 331,467	$ 318,967
Accumulated amortization:
Total accumulated amortization	(61,693)	(43,595)
Net amortizable intangible assets	269,774	275,372
Total other intangible assets	473,589	479,187
FCC licenses
Accumulated amortization:
Other indefinite-lived intangible assets — FCC licenses	203,815	203,815
Television network affiliation relationships
Carrying amount:
Total carrying amount	248,444	248,444
Accumulated amortization:
Total accumulated amortization	(33,911)	(24,590)
Customer lists and advertiser relationships
Carrying amount:
Total carrying amount	56,100	56,100
Accumulated amortization:
Total accumulated amortization	(22,976)	(17,092)
Other
Carrying amount:
Total carrying amount	26,923	14,423
Accumulated amortization:
Total accumulated amortization	$ (4,806)	$ (1,913)

Goodwill and Other Intangible51

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for the remainder of 2016		$ 5.5
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2017		21.9
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2018		21.4
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2019		19.7
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2020		18.6
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for 2021		16.4
Estimated amortization expense of intangible assets for later years		$ 166.3
Media Convergence Group (Newsy) [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 21
Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	2.9
Series of Individually Immaterial Business Acquisitions [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill, Impairment Loss	$ 1.5

Long-Term Debt - Components of

Long-Term Debt - Components of Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Components of Long-term debt
Long-term debt		$ 396,651	$ 399,143
Debt Issuance Cost		(2,817)	(3,325)
Long-term Debt, Net of Debt Issuance Cost		388,683	391,175
Current portion of long-term debt		9,312	6,656
Long-term debt (less current portion)		387,339	392,487
Fair value of long-term debt	[1]	401,043	396,576
Unsecured subordinated notes payable
Components of Long-term debt
Long-term debt		7,968	7,968
Variable rate credit facility
Components of Long-term debt
Long-term debt		0	0
Term loan
Components of Long-term debt
Long-term debt		$ 391,500	$ 394,500
[1]	* Fair value of the term loan was estimated based on quoted private market transactions and is classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the unsecured promissory notes is determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis using current market interest rates of comparable instruments and is classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Det

Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Apr. 01, 2015
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Current portion of long-term debt	$ 9,312,000	$ 6,656,000
Long-term debt (less current portion)	387,339,000	392,487,000
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2016	1,000,000
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2017	4,000,000
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2018	4,000,000
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2019	4,000,000
Scheduled principal payments on long-term debt in 2020	378,500,000
Letters of credit outstanding amount	$ 800,000	$ 800,000
Minimum
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Percentage of commitment fees of total unused commitment under revolving credit facility	0.30%
Maximum
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Percentage of commitment fees of total unused commitment under revolving credit facility	0.50%
Financing Agreement
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Revolving credit and term loan agreement to finance acquisition				$ 500,000,000
Restricted payment for dividend and share repurchase, maximum	$ 70,000,000
Ratio of Indebtedness to Net Capital	4.5
Term loan B | Financing Agreement
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Revolving credit and term loan agreement, increase in borrowing capacity				200,000,000
Long-term debt, term loan				400,000,000
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	3.50%	3.50%
LIBOR plus margin range	2.75%
Weighted average interest rate	3.50%		3.42%
Term loan B | Financing Agreement | Minimum
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Long-term Debt, Percentage Bearing Variable Interest, Percentage Rate	0.75%
Revolving credit facility | Financing Agreement
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Revolving credit and term loan agreement to finance acquisition				100,000,000
Revolving credit and term loan agreement, increase in borrowing capacity				$ 25,000,000
Revolving credit facility | Financing Agreement | Minimum
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding, Trigger Leverage Ratio, Percentage	20.00%
LIBOR plus margin range	2.25%
Revolving credit facility | Financing Agreement | Maximum
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
LIBOR plus margin range	2.75%
Unsecured subordinated notes payable
Long-Term Debt (Textual) [Abstract]
Stated interest rate (percent)	7.25%
Annual installment payments	$ 2,700,000

Financial Instruments - Narrati

Financial Instruments - Narrative (Details) - Interest rate swaps - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Notional Amount	$ 75,000	$ 75,000
Fixed LIBOR interest rate	1.08%

Financial Instruments - Notiona

Financial Instruments - Notional Amounts (Details) - Interest rate swaps - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Derivative, Notional Amount		$ 75,000	$ 75,000
Interest Rate Derivative Assets, at Fair Value		0	0
Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value	[1]	$ 99	$ 299
[1]	(1) Balance recorded as other liabilities in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

Financial Instruments - Effecti

Financial Instruments - Effective Portion of Unrealized Gain and Loss (Details) - Interest rate swaps - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges:
Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCL, gain	$ 96	$ 96	$ 288	$ 288
Gain (loss) on derivative	$ 136	$ (15)	$ 200	$ (125)

Fair Value Measurement - Assets

Fair Value Measurement - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash equivalents		$ 5,000	$ 5,000
Level 1 | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash equivalents		5,000	5,000
Level 2 | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash equivalents		0	0
Level 3 | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Cash equivalents		0	0
Interest rate swaps
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Interest rate swap	[1]	(99)	(299)
Interest rate swaps | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Interest rate swap		(99)	(299)
Interest rate swaps | Level 1 | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Interest rate swap		0	0
Interest rate swaps | Level 2 | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Interest rate swap		(99)	(299)
Interest rate swaps | Level 3 | Recurring Measurements
Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
Interest rate swap		$ 0	$ 0
[1]	(1) Balance recorded as other liabilities in Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

Other Liabilities - Additional

Other Liabilities - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Other liabilities
Employee compensation and benefits	$ 18,536	$ 16,808
Liability for pension benefits	221,110	221,965
Liabilities for uncertain tax positions	3,445	3,492
Other	21,067	25,302
Other liabilities (less current portion)	$ 264,158	$ 267,567

Supplemental Cash Flow Inform59

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Change in Certain Working Capital Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Other changes in certain working capital accounts, net
Accounts and notes receivable	$ (12,586)	$ (14,461)
Transition services receivable, net	0	(2,473)
Income taxes receivable/payable, net	3,437	(14,450)
Accounts payable	(768)	(11,303)
Accrued employee compensation and benefits	(10,918)	2,059
Other accrued liabilities	(4,475)	(1,649)
Other, net	3,698	(3,814)
Total	$ (21,612)	$ (46,091)

Employee Benefit Plans - Compon

Employee Benefit Plans - Components of Expense (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 5,720,000	$ 5,113,000	$ 16,978,000	$ 17,803,000
Allocated to discontinued operations	0	0	0	(1,096,000)
Net periodic benefit cost — continuing operations	5,720,000	5,113,000	16,978,000	16,707,000
Defined contribution plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Net periodic benefit cost	2,073,000	2,094,000	6,347,000	7,805,000
Multi-employer plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Net periodic benefit cost	42,000	43,000	127,000	140,000
Defined benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Interest cost	6,839,000	8,169,000	20,379,000	22,797,000
Expected return on plan assets, net of expenses	(4,616,000)	(6,625,000)	(13,812,000)	(18,334,000)
Amortization of actuarial loss	1,102,000	1,179,000	3,097,000	3,515,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments	0	0	0	1,080,000
Total for defined benefit plans	3,325,000	2,723,000	9,664,000	9,058,000
SERPs
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost [Abstract]
Net periodic benefit cost	$ 280,000	$ 253,000	$ 840,000	$ 800,000

Employee Benefit Plans - Narrat

Employee Benefit Plans - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
SERPs
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions to benefit plan			$ 800,000
Estimated future contributions			300,000
Defined benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Contributions to benefit plan			7,600,000
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments	$ 0	$ 0	0	$ 1,080,000
Minimum | Defined benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future contributions			1,000,000
Maximum | Defined benefit plans
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated future contributions			$ 2,000,000

Segment Information - Narrative

Segment Information - Narrative (Details)	Sep. 30, 2016radio_stationcustomeraffiliatemarket
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of major customers customers | customer	0
Percentage of revenue by major customer	10.00%
Television
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of market capture	18.00%
Television | ABC affiliates
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of affiliates	15
Television | NBC affiliates
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of affiliates	5
Television | FOX affiliates
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of affiliates	2
Television | CBS affiliates
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of affiliates	2
Television | Non big four affiliates
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of affiliates	4
Television | Azteca America affiliates
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of affiliates	5
Radio
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of radio stations | radio_station	34
Number of markets in which the company operates | market	8
Radio | Radio - FM
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of radio stations | radio_station	28
Radio | Radio - AM
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of radio stations | radio_station	6

Segment Information - Schedule

Segment Information - Schedule of Business Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Information regarding business segments
Total operating revenues	$ 233,040	$ 189,691	$ 670,355	$ 510,848
Segment profit (loss)	27,325	(25,357)	59,498	(50,663)
Defined benefit pension plan expense	(3,605)	(2,976)	(10,504)	(9,782)
Acquisition and related integration costs	0	(4,206)	(578)	(36,953)
Depreciation and amortization of intangibles	(14,892)	(16,273)	(44,089)	(37,934)
Impairment of goodwill and intangibles	0	24,613	0	24,613
Losses, net on disposal of property and equipment	(26)	(200)	(44)	(579)
Interest expense	(4,592)	(4,246)	(13,603)	(10,523)
Miscellaneous, net	(596)	1,061	(1,245)	12
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest	22,137	(28,542)	44,650	(61,174)
Depreciation:
Total depreciation	8,407	11,092	25,991	25,883
Amortization of intangibles:
Total amortization of intangibles	6,485	5,181	18,098	12,051
Additions to property and equipment:
Total additions to property and equipment	7,997	6,473	18,325	15,244
Television
Information regarding business segments
Total operating revenues	197,283	157,437	568,932	439,049
Segment profit (loss)	58,305	31,707	153,290	98,357
Depreciation:
Total depreciation	7,120	9,765	22,517	22,389
Amortization of intangibles:
Total amortization of intangibles	4,239	4,262	12,718	10,412
Additions to property and equipment:
Total additions to property and equipment	6,618	5,607	16,248	13,350
Radio
Information regarding business segments
Total operating revenues	19,301	20,421	52,087	39,834
Segment profit (loss)	2,528	4,073	8,574	8,981
Depreciation:
Total depreciation	653	554	1,733	1,103
Amortization of intangibles:
Total amortization of intangibles	265	280	795	560
Additions to property and equipment:
Total additions to property and equipment	628	623	944	639
Digital
Information regarding business segments
Total operating revenues	15,754	10,861	43,287	25,698
Segment profit (loss)	(5,633)	(3,639)	(13,481)	(13,210)
Depreciation:
Total depreciation	40	132	148	394
Amortization of intangibles:
Total amortization of intangibles	1,643	639	3,570	1,079
Additions to property and equipment:
Total additions to property and equipment	34	46	51	46
Syndication and other
Information regarding business segments
Total operating revenues	702	972	6,049	6,267
Segment profit (loss)	(832)	(572)	(984)	(1,229)
Depreciation:
Total depreciation	67	66	196	195
Additions to property and equipment:
Total additions to property and equipment	74	7	115	76
Shared services and corporate
Information regarding business segments
Segment profit (loss)	(8,520)	(8,658)	(32,686)	(33,701)
Depreciation:
Total depreciation	527	575	1,397	1,802
Amortization of intangibles:
Total amortization of intangibles	338	0	1,015	0
Additions to property and equipment:
Total additions to property and equipment	$ 643	$ 190	$ 967	$ 1,133

Capital Stock - Narrative (Deta

Capital Stock - Narrative (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)directorcommon_share$ / shares	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)$ / shares	May 31, 2014USD ($)
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Classes of common shares | common_share	2
Stock repurchased during period, value	$ 29,673,000	$ 10,901,000
Minimum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Minimum number of directors up for election to entitle shareholders to vote | director	0.3333
Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Minimum number of directors up for election to entitle shareholders to vote | director	3
Common stock, Class A
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount			$ 100,000,000
Stock repurchased during period, value	$ 29,700,000	$ 10,900,000
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized amount	$ 54,100,000
Common stock, Class A | Minimum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchased during period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 14.71	$ 15.90
Common stock, Class A | Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Stock repurchased during period (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 19.51	$ 24.08

Accumulated Other Comprehensi65

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended				9 Months Ended
		Sep. 30, 2016		Sep. 30, 2015		Sep. 30, 2016	Sep. 30, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		$ (88,416)		$ (125,873)		$ (89,802)	$ (126,443)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications		0		0		0	0
Spin-off of Newspapers							(140,562)
Ending balance		(87,658)		(125,052)		(87,658)	(125,052)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	[1]	59		59		177	178
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial gain (loss)	[2]	699		762		1,967	(1,113)
Net current-period other comprehensive income		758		821		2,144	(935)
Gains and Losses on Derivatives
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(124)		(360)		(242)	(479)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications		0		0		0	0
Spin-off of Newspapers							0
Ending balance		(65)		(301)		(65)	(301)
Gains and Losses on Derivatives | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial gain (loss)	[2]	0		0		0	0
Net current-period other comprehensive income		59		59		177	178
Gains and Losses on Derivatives | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Interest rate swaps
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap		59	[1]	59	[1]	177	178
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap, tax		37		37		111	110
Defined Benefit Pension Items
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		(88,458)		(125,524)		(89,740)	(125,877)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications		0		0		0	0
Spin-off of Newspapers							2,312
Stockholders' Equity Note, Spinoff Transaction, Tax Effect				0			1,517
Ending balance		(87,752)		(124,762)		(87,752)	(124,762)
Defined Benefit Pension Items | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	[1]	0		0		0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial gain (loss)		706	[2]	762	[2]	1,988	(1,197)
Amounts reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial gain (loss), tax		436		471		1,229	(740)
Net current-period other comprehensive income		706		762		1,988	(1,197)
Other
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance		166		11		180	(87)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications		0		0		0	0
Spin-off of Newspapers							14
Ending balance		159		11		159	11
Other | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Interest rate swap	[1]	0		0		0	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, Actuarial gain (loss)		(7)	[2]	0	[2]	(21)	84
Net current-period other comprehensive income		$ (7)		$ 0		$ (21)	84
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Roll Forward]
Spin-off of Newspapers							$ 2,326
[1]	(a) Interest rate swap amortization is included in interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
[2]	(b) Actuarial gain (loss) is included in defined benefit pension plan expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

Journal Broadcast Merger and 66

Journal Broadcast Merger and Newspaper Spin-off (Discontinued Operations) Narrative (Details)	Apr. 01, 2015USD ($)newspaper	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Journal Communications, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Proceeds from Services Provided to Related Party		$ 2,500,000
Payments for Services Performed by Related Party		900,000
Spin-off
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Special cash dividend	$ 60,000,000
Transaction costs expensed		$ 4,000,000	$ 40,000,000
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Professional Fees			3,000,000
Professional Fees			37,000,000
Spin-off | Journal Communications, Inc.
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use			$ 0
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of	$ 30,000,000
Spin-off | Newspaper operations | Parent company
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Number of newspapers | newspaper	13

Journal Broadcast Merger and 67

Journal Broadcast Merger and Newspaper Spin-off (Discontinued Operations) Discontinued Operations (Details) - Spin-off $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)
Operating results of discontinued operations:
Operating revenues	$ 91,478
Total costs and expenses	(79,517)
Depreciation and amortization of intangibles	(3,608)
Other, net	(3,298)
Loss on disposal of Scripps Newspapers	(30,000)
Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes	(24,945)
Benefit for income taxes	9,513
Net loss from discontinued operations	$ (15,432)