Segment Reporting [Abstract] Summary of Continuing Operations By Reportable Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Summary of Inter-Segment Eliminations Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue by Geographic Area Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block] Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets Schedule of Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Table Text Block] Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Parent Company Parent Company [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non- Guarantor Subsidiaries Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Net income (loss) including noncontrolling interest Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Unrealized loss on interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), after Adjustments, before Tax Other comprehensive income, before income taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Income tax expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to AMC Networks' stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Interest Interest Payable, Current Employee related costs Employee-related Liabilities, Current Income taxes payable Taxes Payable, Current Other accrued expenses Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Levity Levity [Member] Levity [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class B Common Stock Common Class B [Member] Series L Preferred Stock [Member] Series L Preferred Stock [Member] Outstanding nonredeemable series L preferred stock or outstanding series A preferred stock. Classified within stockholders' equity if nonredeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Classified within temporary equity if redemption is outside the control of the issuer. Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Percentage of controlling interest Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Cash paid for controlling interest Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Return of capital from investees Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Investment in and loans to investees Payments for (Proceeds from) Investments Payments for acquisition of a business, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Increase (decrease) to investment in affiliates (Increase) Decrease in Consolidated Subsidiaries (Increase) Decrease in investments in consolidated segments and subsidiaries, which are eliminated in the Corporate parent consolidation. Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Deemed repurchases of restricted stock units Payments for Repurchase of Other Equity Purchase of treasury stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from stock option exercises Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Principal payments on finance lease obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Distributions to noncontrolling interests Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Principal payments on long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payments for financing costs Payments of Financing Costs Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from operations Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Secured debt Secured Debt [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Term Loan A Facility Term-A Facility [Member] Term-A Facility [Member] 4.75% Notes due August 2025 4.75% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] 4.75% Senior Notes Due 2025 [Member] 5.00% Notes due April 2024 5.00% Senior Notes [Member] 5.00% Senior Notes [Member] 4.75% Notes due December 2022 4.75% Senior Notes [Member] 4.75% Senior Notes [Member] Other debt Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Gross Unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Unamortized deferred financing costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Long-term debt, net Long-term Debt Current portion of long-term debt Debt, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Carrying Values And Fair Values Of The Company's Financial Instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent State income tax expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Increase in valuation allowances Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount One-time rate change on deferred tax assets and liabilities Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Tax benefit from foreign subsidiary earnings Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Foreign, Amount Foreign tax credit carry forwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Foreign Valuation allowance Tax Credit Carryforward, Valuation Allowance Second component of tax deductible goodwill, net of tax Second component of tax deductible goodwill, net of tax Second component of tax deductible goodwill, net of tax Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Operating cash flows from operating leases Operating Lease, Payments Financing cash flows from finance leases Finance Lease, Principal Payments Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Restricted stock units Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Class A Common Stock Common Class A [Member] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive securities excluded from EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Amount authorized under Stock Repurchase Program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Number of shares repurchased Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Average purchase price (in dollars per share) Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Available for repurchase under the Stock Repurchase Program Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2016 Employee Stock Plan 2016 Employee Stock Plan [Member] 2016 Employee Stock Plan [Member] RSUs PRSUs Performance Shares [Member] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One Share-based Compensation Award, Tranche One [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Granted in period (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vesting period (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Measurement period (as a percentage) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Number of shares vested in period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Shares surrendered to the Company for tax withholding Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation New shares of Company's Class A common stock issued Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Share-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Total unrecognized share-based compensation costs Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Total unrecognized share-based compensation costs, remaining period of recognition (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives designated as hedging instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Exchange Forward Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Interest Rate Swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Other Contract Other Contract [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Other assets Other Assets [Member] Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives designated as hedging instruments: Summary of Derivative Instruments by Hedge Designation [Abstract] Interest rate swap contracts liabilities Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Asset at Fair Value Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments: Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Abstract] Foreign currency derivative assets Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Asset at Fair Value Foreign currency derivative liabilities Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Liability at Fair Value Leases Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Leases Lessee, Finance Leases [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Inter-segment eliminations Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] National Networks National Networks [Member] National Networks [Member] used to show information from that operating segment of AMC's operations International and Other International And Other [Member] International and Other [Member] used to show information from that operating segment of AMC's operations Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues, net Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Net Income per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Estimated Amortization Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Parent percentage of ownership in guarantor subsidiaries Parent Percentage of Ownership in Guarantor Subsidiaries Parent Percentage of Ownership in Guarantor Subsidiaries Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statement [Table] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Balance Sheet Statements, Captions [Line Items] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts) Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Current portion of program rights, net Program Rights Net Current Rights to programming, including feature film and episodic series acquired under license agreements which will be amortized within the next twelve months. Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Total current assets Assets, Current Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Investment in affiliates Investments In Consolidated Subsidiaries Represents total investments in consolidated segments and subsidiaries, which are eliminated in the Corporate parent consolidation. Program rights, net Program Rights Net Noncurrent Noncurrent portion of rights to programming, including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements, which are amortized over the life of the license period or period of economic utility. Long-term intercompany notes receivable Intercompany Receivable, Noncurrent Amounts due from a subsidiary of the Company. Deferred carriage fees, net Other Deferred Costs, Net Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill Goodwill Deferred tax asset, net Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Operating lease right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued liabilities and intercompany payable Current portion of program rights obligations Program Rights Obligations, Current Deferred revenue Contract with Customer, Liability, Current Current portion of lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Current Current portion of lease obligations Operating and Finance Lease, Liability, Current Operating and Finance Lease, Liability, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Program rights obligations Program Rights Obligations, Noncurrent Lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Lease obligations Operating and Lease Liability, Noncurrent Operating and Lease Liability, Noncurrent Deferred tax liability, net Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Other liabilities and intercompany notes payable Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable noncontrolling interests Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] AMC Networks stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Non-redeemable noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Investments [Abstract] Investments Investments in Debt and Marketable Equity Securities (and Certain Trading Assets) Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Level I Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level II Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Marketable securities Debt Securities, Available-for-sale Foreign currency derivatives Foreign Currency Contract, Asset, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Interest rate swap contracts Foreign Currency Contracts, Liability, Fair Value Disclosure Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $9,267 and $10,788) Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $308,699 and $293,918 Intangible assets, net Total assets Accrued liabilities Other liabilities Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 45,000 shares authorized; none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost (18,525 and 18,507 shares Class A Common Stock, respectively) Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total AMC Networks stockholders' equity Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Description of Business and Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Accrued Liabilities Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Revenue from Contract with Customer Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Weighted average remaining lease term, operating leases (in years) Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Weighted average remaining lease term, finance leases (in years) Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Weighted average discount rate, operating leases (as a percentage) Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Weighted average discount rate, financing leases (as a percentage) Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block] Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Affiliate and customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Advertiser relationships Advertiser Relationships [Member] Advertiser Relationships [Member] Trade names Trade Names [Member] Other amortizable intangible assets Other Intangible Assets [Member] Estimated useful lives (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Trademarks Indefinite-Lived Trademarks Total intangible assets, gross Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Total intangible assets, net 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Long-term Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] AMC Networks Stockholders’ Equity Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Beginning Balance Net income attributable to AMC Networks’ stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income attributable to non-redeemable noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Nonredeemable Noncontrolling Interest Distributions to noncontrolling member Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Settlement of treasury stock Settlement of Treasury Stock Settlement of Treasury Stock Cumulative effects of adoption of accounting standards Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Treasury stock not yet settled Temporary Equity, Other Changes Other comprehensive income Other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Share-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Treasury stock acquired Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Proceeds from the exercise of stock options Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised Restricted stock units converted to shares Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Ending Balance (in shares) Ending Balance Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Axis] Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] Threatened Litigation Threatened Litigation [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Increase (decrease) in contractual obligations not reflected in the balance sheet Increase (Decrease) In Contractual Obligations Not Reflected In The Balance Sheet The increase (decrease) during the reporting period for the amount of fixed and determinable portion of unrecorded balance sheet arrangements consisting of purchase obligations of long-term program rights obligations that have not yet met the criteria to be recorded on the balance sheet, operating leases and guarantees. Contractual obligation Contractual Obligation Claim for damages Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest expense Interest Expense [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives Recognized in OCI Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, before Tax Revenue recognized Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] National Networks Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Goodwill, Subsequent Recognition of Deferred Tax Asset Goodwill, Subsequent Recognition of Deferred Tax Asset Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Fair Value Measurement Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Basic weighted average shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Effect of dilution: Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Effect of dilution (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted weighted average shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Miscellaneous, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gain on derivative instrument Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Summary of Accrued Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Condensed Balance Sheet Condensed Balance Sheet [Table Text Block] Condensed Income Statement Condensed Income Statement [Table Text Block] Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income Condensed Statement of Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Condensed Cash Flow Statement Condensed Cash Flow Statement [Table Text Block] Restructuring expense Restructuring Charges Accrued restructuring costs, accrued liabilities Restructuring Reserve, Current Accrued restructuring costs, other liabilities (long-term) Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Severance and employee-related costs Employee Severance [Member] Other exit costs Other Restructuring [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Balance at December 31, 2018 Restructuring Reserve Charges Cash payments Payments for Restructuring Non-cash adjustments Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Currency translation Restructuring Reserve, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Balance at March 31, 2019 Equity method investments Equity Method Investments Investments in marketable equity securities Marketable Securities Investments in non-marketable equity securities Securities Owned Not Readily Marketable Write-down of non-marketable equity securities and note receivable Write-down of Non-Marketable Equity Security and Note Receivable Write-down of Non-Marketable Equity Security and Note Receivable Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Notional amounts Derivative, Notional Amount Business Combination Disclosure Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Included In Balance Sheets Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Gains And Losses Related To Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Accrued Liabilities Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities, and Other Liabilities Disclosure, Current [Text Block] Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Cash Flows Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues, net Operating expenses Operating Expenses [Abstract] Technical and operating (excluding depreciation and amortization) Cost of Revenue Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Total operating expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Other income (expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest Miscellaneous, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total other income (expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income from operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Net income including noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to AMC Networks' stockholders Net income per share attributable to AMC Networks' stockholders: Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average common shares Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Basic (in shares) Diluted (in shares) Accounts receivable (including long-term, included in Other assets) Accounts Receivable, Net Contract assets, short-term (included in Other current assets) Contract with Customer, Asset, Net, Current Contract assets, long-term (included in Other assets) Contract with Customer, Asset, Net, Noncurrent Contract liabilities (Deferred revenue) Operating Leases Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract] 2019 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: Interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Present value of lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Finance Leases Finance Lease Liabilities, Payments, Due [Abstract] 2019 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2020 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five Total lease payments Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: Interest Finance Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Present value of lease liabilities Finance Lease, Liability Total Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract] Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract] 2019 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 2020 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five Thereafter Lease, Liability, Payments, Due After Year Five Lease, Liability, Payments, Due After Year Five Total lease payments Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less: Interest Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total lease liabilities Lease Liability Lease Liability RLJE RLJE [Member] RLJE [Member] Fair value of equity consideration transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Fair value of previously held equity interest Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Fair Value Redeemable noncontrolling interest Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Total Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Allocation to net assets acquired: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Cash Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Prepaid expenses and other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Other noncurrent assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Accounts payable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Accounts Payable Accrued liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Long-term Debt Current liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities Noncurrent liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities Noncontrolling interests acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Less Noncontrolling Interest Fair value of net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Goodwill Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Advertising Advertising [Member] Distribution Entertainment [Member] Operating segments Operating Segments [Member] Equity investees (50% interest) AOI Equity Investees Adjusted Operating Income Equity investees (>50%) adjusted operating Income (loss) before depreciation and amortization, share-based compensation expense or benefit, impairment charges, and restructuring expense or credit. Adjusted operating income Segment Reporting Information, Adjusted Operating Income Operating income (loss) before depreciation and amortization, share-based compensation expense or benefit, impairment charges, and restructuring expense or credit. Summary of Leases Included in the Consolidated Balance Sheets Summary of Lessee Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Lessee Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Lease Costs Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Summary of Maturity of Operating Lease Liabilities Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Summary of Maturity of Finance Lease Liabilities Finance Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Summary of Supplemental Cash Paid for Amounts in the Measurement of Lease Liabilities Summary of Supplemental Cash Paid for Amounts in the Measurement of Lease Liabilities [Table Text Block] Summary of Supplemental Cash Paid for Amounts in the Measurement of Lease Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] December 31, 2018 Puchase accounting adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Amortization of second component goodwill Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) March 31, 2019 Number of operating segments Number of Operating Segments Revenues, net Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Income from continuing operations, net of income taxes Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Before Tax Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Before Tax Net income per share, basic Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Net income per share, diluted Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net income including noncontrolling interests Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Share-based compensation expense related to equity classified awards Share-based Compensation Non-cash restructuring charges Restructuring Costs Amortization and write-off of program rights Program Rights Amortization And Write-Offs Noncash amortization and noncash charges for the write-off of unamortized costs for program rights (including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements or owned original productions). Amortization of deferred carriage fees Amortization of Other Deferred Charges Unrealized foreign currency transaction gain Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Unrealized Unrealized gain on derivative contracts, net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts on indebtedness Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Bad debt expense Provision for Doubtful Accounts Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other, net Other Operating Activities, Cash Flow Statement Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable, trade (including amounts due from related parties, net) Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Program rights and obligations, net Increase (Decrease) In Program Rights And Obligations Increase (Decrease) In Program Rights And Obligations Income taxes payable Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Contract with Customer, Liability Deferred carriage fees, net Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Charges Accounts payable, accrued liabilities and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Capital expenditures Investment in and loans to investees Net cash used in investing activities Summary Of Non-Cash Activities And Other Supplemental Data Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU No. 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Operating lease asset Historical deferred rent liability Deferred Rent Credit Lease liabilities Number of national programming networks Number of Nationally Distributed Programming Networks Number of Nationally Distributed Programming Networks Program rights write-offs Program Rights Write Offs The write-off of unamortized costs for program rights (including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements or owned original program rights). Operating lease costs Operating Lease, Cost Amortization of leased assets Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization Interest on lease liabilities Finance Lease, Interest Expense Short term lease costs Short-term Lease, Cost Variable lease costs Variable Lease, Cost Total net lease cost Lease, Cost Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United States North America [Member] Europe Europe [Member] Other Geographic Locations Other Geographic Locations [Member] Other Geographic Locations [Member] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] December 31, 2018 Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest Distributions Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Distributions Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Distributions Other Noncontrolling Interest in Net Income (Loss) Other Noncontrolling Interests, Redeemable March 31, 2019 Accounts receivable, trade, allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Treasury stock, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statement [Table] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items] Operating expenses Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Technical and operating (excluding depreciation and amortization) Selling, general and administrative Impairment and related charges Asset Impairment Charges Operating income Interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Net Share of affiliates' income Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Loss on extinguishment of debt Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Total other income (expense) Income from operations before income taxes Finance lease asset Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Total lease assets Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Operating lease liability, current Operating Lease, Liability, Current Finance lease liability, current Finance Lease, Liability, Current Total lease liabilities, current Lease, Liability, Current Lease, Liability, Current Operating lease liability, noncurrent Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Finance lease liability, noncurrent Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Total lease liabilities, noncurrent Basis of Presentation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Program Rights Program Rights [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for rights to programming, including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements, which are amortized over the life of the license period or period of economic utility. Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Adoption of New Lease Standard and Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revolving credit facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Remaining undrawn capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Net revenues from related parties Revenue from Related Parties Selling, general and administrative charges from related parties Related Party Transaction, Selling, General and Administrative Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Income tax expense Comprehensive income Capital expenditures incurred but not yet paid Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid Treasury stock not yet settled Treasury Stock Not Yet Settled Treasury Stock Not Yet Settled Cash interest paid Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Income taxes paid, net Income Taxes Paid, Net