Document and entity information. Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Statement [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class Of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Class A [Member] Class A [Member] Common Class B [Member] Class B [Member] Statement [Line Items] Document Type Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Consolidated Balance Sheets [Abstract] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Assets [Abstract] ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Total Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,599 and $3,092) Accounts Receivable, Net, Current, Total Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current Amounts due from related parties, net Rights to programming, including feature film and episodic series acquired under license agreements which will be amortized within the next twelve months. Program Rights Net Current Program rights, net Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current, Total Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current, Ending Balance Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current, Beginning Balance Deferred tax asset, net Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current, Total Assets, Current Total current assets Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Ending Balance Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Beginning Balance Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $142,815 and $132,745 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Total 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. Program Rights Net Noncurrent Program rights, net Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Noncurrent Amounts due from related parties, net Other Deferred Costs, Net Deferred carriage fees, net Deferred Costs, Noncurrent, Total Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Total intangible assets, net Intangible assets, net Goodwill Goodwill, Ending Balance Goodwill, Beginning Balance Goodwill, Total Other Assets, Noncurrent Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent, Total Assets Total assets Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIENCY Current Liabilities: Accounts Payable, Current Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current, Total Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accrued liabilities: Interest Payable, Current Interest Employee-related Liabilities, Current Employee related costs Employee-related Liabilities, Current, Total Accured employee related costs Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Other accrued expenses Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Amounts due to related parties, net Obligations relating to rights to programming, including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements that will be paid within the next twelve months. Program Rights Obligations Current Program rights obligations Deferred Revenue, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current, Total Loans Payable to Bank, Current Credit facility debt Long-term Debt, Current Maturities, Total Less: current portion Capital Lease Obligations,Current Capital lease obligations Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Obligations relating to rights to programming, including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements that will be paid after one year. Program Rights Obligations Non Current Program rights obligations Senior Notes, Noncurrent Senior notes Senior Notes, Total Loans Payable to Bank, Noncurrent Credit facility debt Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Capital lease obligations Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Deferred tax liability, net Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent, Total Liabilities Total liabilities Commitments and Contingencies. Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Stockholders' deficiency: Common Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock, Value, Issued, Ending Balance Common Stock, Value, Issued, Beginning Balance Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued, Total Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued, Ending Balance Preferred Stock, Value, Issued, Beginning Balance Preferred Stock, Value, Issued, Total Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 45,000,000 shares authorized; none issued Additional Paid in Capital Additional Paid in Capital, Ending Balance Additional Paid in Capital, Beginning Balance Paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Total Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Ending Balance Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Beginning Balance Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit), Total Treasury Stock, Value Treasury stock, at cost (627,818 and 194,060 shares Class A Common Stock, respectively) Treasury Stock, Value, Ending Balance Treasury Stock, Value, Beginning Balance Treasury stock, at cost Treasury stock, at cost (51,422 shares Class A common shares) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Ending Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Beginning Balance Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Total Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Balance Balance Total stockholders' deficiency Liabilities and Equity Total liabilities and stockholders' deficiency Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current, Ending Balance Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current, Beginning Balance Accounts receivable, trade, allowance for doubtful accounts Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Ending Balance Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Beginning Balance Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Total Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, par value Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued, Total Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Ending Balance Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance Common stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued, Total Treasury Stock, Shares Treasury Stock, Shares, Ending Balance Treasury Stock, Shares, Beginning Balance Treasury stock, shares Consolidated Statements Of Income [Abstract] Sales Revenue, Services, Net Revenues, net (including revenues, net from related parties of $8,102, $8,028, $16,175 and $15,968, respectively) Consolidated revenues, net Revenues, net Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Operating expenses: Cost of Revenue Technical and operating (excluding depreciation and amortization shown below and including charges from related parties of $310, $1,396, $310 and $2,601, respectively) Cost of Services, Total Selling, General and Administrative Expense Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, general and administrative (including charges from related parties of $1,108, $26,459, $3,104 and $50,750, respectively) Selling, general and administrative expense Total selling, general and administrative expenses Restructuring Charges Restructuring credit Restructuring credit Restructuring Charges, Total Restructuring credit Depreciation and Amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Total Depreciation and amortization Costs and Expenses Total operating expenses Operating Income (Loss) Operating income (loss) from continuing operations Operating income Operating income Operating income (loss) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Other income (expense): Interest Expense Interest expense Interest expense Interest Expense, Total Cash interest paid - continuing operations Investment Income, Interest and Dividend Interest income Investment Income, Interest and Dividend, Total Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Write-off of deferred financing costs Write-off of deferred financing costs Write-off of deferred financing costs Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss on extinguishment of debt Loss on extinguishment of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt, Total Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Miscellaneous, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense), Total Nonoperating Income (Expense) Total nonoperating income (expense) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Total Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income Net income Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic net income per share: Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Outstanding Share, Total Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Share, Total Earnings Per Share, Basic Net income Earnings Per Share, Basic, Total Diluted net income per share: Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Income from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share, Total Earnings Per Share, Diluted Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Total Net income Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted average common shares: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic weighted average common shares Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic, Total Basic weighted average shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted weighted average shares outstanding Diluted weighted average common shares Revenue from Related Parties Net revenues from related parties Revenues, net Related Party Costs Technical and operating charges from related parties Related Party Transaction Selling General and Administrative Expenses Credits Subtotal from Transactions with Related Party Selling, general and administrative charges from related parties Transition service fees included in SG&A expenses Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Other comprehensive loss: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Unrealized loss on interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Other comprehensive loss, before income taxes Other comprehensive loss, before income taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Income tax benefit Income tax benefit Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent, Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive loss (see Note 6) Other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes Other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows [Abstract] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Total Depreciation and amortization Share-based Compensation Share-based compensation expense Share-based compensation expense subsequent to the Distribution Share-based compensation expense related to equity classified awards Share-based Compensation, Total Share-based compensation expense 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). Program Rights Amortization And Write-Offs Amortization and write-off of program rights Other Amortization of Deferred Charges Amortization of deferred carriage fees Amortization and write-off of financing and other costs. Amortization And Write-Off Of Financing And Other Costs Amortization and write-off of financing and other costs Provision for Doubtful Accounts (Recovery of) provision for doubtful accounts Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits, Total Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation arrangements Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation arrangements Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accounts receivable, trade Accounts receivable, trade The aggregate net increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the amount due from the following types of related parties: a parent company and its subsidiaries; subsidiaries of a common parent; an entity and trust for the benefit of employees, such as pension and profit-sharing trusts that are managed by or under the trusteeship of the entity's management; an entity and its principal owners, management, or member of their immediate families, affiliates, or other parties with the ability to exert significant influence. Increase Decrease In Due From Related Parties, Net Amounts due from/to related parties, net Amounts due from/to related parties, net Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Prepaid expenses and other assets Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Total The net change during the reporting period in obligations relating to rights to programming, including feature films and episodic series, acquired under license agreements. Increase (Decrease) In Program Rights And Obligations Program rights and obligations, net Increase (Decrease) In Deferred Carriage Fees and Deferred Carriage Fees Payable Deferred carriage fees and deferred carriage fees payable, net Deferred carriage fees and deferred carriage fees payable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Total Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Adjusted operating cash flow (deficit) Net cash provided by operating activities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from investing activities: Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Capital expenditures Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment, Total Capital Expenditures Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Acquisition of investment securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities, Total Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payment for acquisition of a business Payment for acquisition of a business Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired, Total Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of equipment, net of costs of disposal Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment, Total Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Net cash used in investing activities Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from Contributed Capital Capital contributions from Cablevision Cash capital contributions from Cablevision Payments of Capital Distribution Capital distributions to Cablevision Cash capital distributions to Cablevision Capital distribution Deemed capital distribution to Cablevision related to employee benefit plans as a result of the Distribution (see Employee Matters Agreement discussion below) Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit Repayment of credit facility debt Repayment of credit facility debt Repayments of Long-term Debt, Total Redemption Of Senior Notes Including Fees Redemption of senior notes Redemption of senior notes, including fees Repayments of Senior Debt, Total Redemption Of Senior Subordinated Notes Including Tender Premium And Fees Redemption of senior subordinated notes, including tender premium and fees Redemption of senior subordinated notes, including tender premium and fees Repayments of Subordinated Debt, Total Additions To Deferred Financing Costs Payments for financing costs Additions to deferred financing costs Payments of Financing Costs, Total Proceeds from (Repayments of) Lines of Credit Repayment of credit facility debt Proceeds from (Repayments of) Lines of Credit, Total Proceeds from credit facility debt Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Purchase of treasury stock Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Proceeds from stock option exercises Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation arrangements Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation arrangements Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Principal payments on capital lease obligations Principal payments on capital lease obligations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities Net Increase Decrease in Cash and Cash Equivalents from Continuing Operations Net increase in cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Cash flows from discontinued operations: Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by investing activities Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Net increase in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations Description Of Business And Basis Of Presentation [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Description Of Business And Basis Of Presentation Net Income Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Net Income Per Share Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets [Abstract] Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill And Other Intangible Assets Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Debt [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Derivative Financial Instruments [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Commitments And Contingencies [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments And Contingencies Equity And Long-Term Incentive Plans [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Equity And Long-Term Incentive Plans Fair Value Measurement [Abstract] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Measurement Concentration Of Risk [Abstract] Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Concentration Of Risk Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Affiliate Transactions [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash Flow Supplemental Disclosures Text Block Cash Flows Segment Information [Abstract] Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Information Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] Reconciliation Between Basic And Diluted Weighted Average Shares Outstanding Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Goodwill Tabular disclosure of amortizable intangibles assets and indefinite-lived intangible assets, in total and by major class, including the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of a company. Schedule Of Intangible Assets, By Major Class [Table Text Block] Summary Of Intangible Assets Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Estimated Amortization Expense Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Summary Of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Fair Value Of Derivative Instruments Included In Balance Sheets Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Gains And Losses Related To Derivative Instruments Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Carrying Values And Fair Values Of The Company's Financial Instruments Schedules of Concentration of Risk, by Risk Factor [Table Text Block] Customer Percentages Of Company's Net Revenues Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block] Supplemental Data Summary Of Non-Cash Activities And Other Supplemental Data Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Summary Of Continuing Operations By Reportable Segment Reconciliation of Other Significant Reconciling Items from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Summary Of Inter-Segment Eliminations Number of segments reported by the entity. A reportable segment is a component of an entity for which there is an accounting requirement to report separate financial information on that component in the entity's financial statements. Number of Reportable Segments Reportable business segments Nationally distributed programming networks Nationally distributed programming networks Net Income (Loss) Per Share [Table] Net Income (Loss) Per Share [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award Award Type And Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Restricted Stock Units R S U [Member] Restricted Shares/Units [Member] Performance Vesting Options [Member] Performance Vesting Options [Member] Performance Vesting RSUs [Member] Average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS). Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Number of shares used to compute basic and diluted EPS Number of the Entity's Class A common stock shares distributed for every four shares of prior parent Company's Class A common stock. Number Of Shares Received In New Company From Spinoff Transaction Number of shares received in new company from spinoff transaction Stock option Number Of Prior Company Shares Held To Receive One Share In New Company, From Spinoff Transaction Number Of Prior Company Shares Held To Receive One Share In New Company, From Spinoff Transaction Number of prior company shares held to receive one share in new company, from spinoff transaction Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive securities excluded from EPS Stock Options [Member] Stock Options [Member] Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Stock options Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements, Total Dilutive awards included in diluted EPS The retirement of fully amortized intangible assets. Advertiser Relationships Retired Advertiser relationships retired Amortization of Intangible Assets Aggregate amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets, Total The percentage decrease threshold based on quantitative assessment that would require step-two of the goodwill impairment test. Percentage Decrease In Fair Value That Would Require Step Two Of Quantitative Assessment Percentage decrease in fair value that would require step two of quantitative assessment to be performed The hypothetical percent decrease applied to evaluate the sensitivity of the fair value calculations. Percentage Of Hypothetical Decrease Percentage of hypothetical decrease Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment Impairment charge Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment, Total Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] AMC [Member] Amc [Member] AMC [Member] WE tv [Member] We Tv [Member] WE tv [Member] IFC [Member] Ifc [Member] IFC [Member] Sundance Channel [Member] Sundance Channel [Member] Sundance Channel [Member] National Networks [Member] used to show information from that reportable segment of AMC's operations National Networks [Member] National Networks [Member] AMC Networks Broadcasting & Technology [Member] Amc Networks Broadcasting Technology [Member] AMC Networks Broadcasting & Technology [Member] International and Other [Member] used to show information from that reportable segment of AMC's operations International And Other [Member] International And Other [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Intangible Assets [Table] Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite Lived Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Affiliation Agreements And Affiliate Relationships [Member] Affiliation Agreements And Affiliate Relationships [Member] Affiliation Agreements And Affiliate Relationships [Member] Advertiser Relationships [Member] Advertiser Relationships [Member] Advertiser Relationships [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Amortizable Intangible Assets [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Gross carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets Gross carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets Gross carrying amount of amortizable intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated amortization Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization Accumulated amortization Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Intangible assets, net Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization Indefinite-Lived Trademarks Trademarks Sum of the carrying amounts of amortizable and indefinite-lived intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date, before accumulated amortization and any impairment charges. Intangible Assets, Gross, Excluding Goodwill Total intangible assets, gross Future Amortization Expense, Year One Year ending December 31, 2012 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two Year ending December 31, 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three Year ending December 31, 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four Year ending December 31, 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Year ending December 31, 2016 Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Internal Revenue Service I R S [Member] Federal [Member] Foreign Country [Member] Foreign [Member] Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis] Tax Credit Carryforward Name [Domain] Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain] Alternative Minimum Tax Credit [Member] Alternative Minimum Tax Credit [Member] Alternative Minimum Tax Credit [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Member] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations, Total Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Federal statutory rate Income Tax Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Total State income tax expense The sum of the differences between total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the Income Statement and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to uncertain tax positions, including accrued interest. Income Tax Reconciliation, Uncertain Tax Positions Tax expense related to uncertain tax positions including accrued interest Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Tax benefit (expense) from decrease (increase) in valuation allowance Tax benefit (expense) from decrease (increase) in valuation allowance Operating Loss Carryforwards Net operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards, Total Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Dates Net operating loss carryforwards, expiration year Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Tax credit carryforward Tax Credit Carryforward, Expiration Dates Foreign tax credit carryforwards, expiration year Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Adjustment to paid-in capital for excess tax benefits from share-based compensation Increase (Decrease) in Current Deferred Tax Assets Increase (Decrease) in Current Deferred Tax Assets Decrease in current deferred income tax assets due to utilization of NOLs Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior Notes Due July 15, 2021 [Member] Senior Notes Due July152021 [Member] Senior Notes Due July 15, 2021 [Member] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Next Quarterly Installment Under Term A Facility September 30, 2014 [Member] Next Quarterly Installment Under Term Facility September302014 [Member] Next Quarterly Installment Under Term A Facility September 30, 2014 [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Axis] Line Of Credit Facility Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Term A Facility [Member] Term Facility [Member] Term A Facility [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Voluntary prepayments under the Credit Facility. Credit Facility, Voluntary Payment Voluntary payment on credit facility Line of Credit Facility, Periodic Payment, Principal Line of credit facility periodic payment Debt Instrument, Face Amount Face amount of senior notes Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Interest rate Interest rate on senior notes Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Maturity date of senior notes Term B Facility [Member] Term B Facility [Member] Term B Facility [Member] Revolving Facility [Member] Revolving Facility [Member] Revolving Facility [Member] Debt, Long-term and Short-term, Combined Amount Debt including current portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Credit facility debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities, Total Total Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Borrowing capacity Derivative [Table] Additional Derivative Information [Axis] Additional Derivative Information [Axis] Additional Derivative Information [Domain] Additional Derivative Information [Domain] Additional Derivative Information [Domain] Interest Rate Swap Contracts Effective In July 2012 [Member] Interest Rate Swap Contracts Effective In July2012 [Member] Interest Rate Swap Contracts Effective In July 2012 [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Notional Amount of Derivatives Interest rate swap contracts outstanding notional amounts Notional Amount of Derivatives, Total The date the interest rate swap contracts matures. Interest Rate Swap Contracts Maturity Dates Interest rate swap contracts maturity date Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap Contracts [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Other Liabilities [Member] Other Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Liability Derivatives, Fair Value Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability, Total Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement And Other Comprehensive Income Location [Domain] Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Location [Domain] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Loss Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion Amount of Loss Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income ("OCI") on Derivatives (Effective Portion) Derivative Instruments, Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion Amount of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Earnings (Effective Portion) Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness, Net, Total Loss recognized in earnings related to the ineffective portion of the hedging relationship Gain (Loss) from Components Excluded from Assessment of Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness, Net Gain (Loss) from Components Excluded from Assessment of Cash Flow Hedge Effectiveness, Net, Total Gain (loss) recognized in earnings related to the amount excluded from effectiveness testing Commitments And Contingencies [Table] Commitments And Contingencies [Table] Information by status of risk of loss associated with the outcome of pending, threatened, or settled litigation against an entity. Litigation Status [Axis] Risk of loss associated with the outcome of pending, threatened, or settled litigation against an entity. Litigation Status [Domain] Litigation Status [Domain] DISH Network Contract Dispute [Member] Dish Network Contract Dispute [Member] DISH Network Contract Dispute [Member] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Number of court rulings appealed in contract dispute. Number Of Court Rulings Appealed Number of court rulings appealed by Dish Network 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. Increase (Decrease) In Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements Not Reflected In The Balance Sheet Decrease in off-balance sheet arrangements not reflected in the consolidated balance sheet The amount of the 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. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements Not Reflected In Balance Sheet Off-balance sheet arrangements not reflected in the consolidated balance sheet Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity interest EchoStar Media Holdings Corporation acquired in VOOM HD Holdings Distribution Term Per Affiliation Agreement Distribution Term Per Affiliation Agreement Term EchoStar Satellite LLC agreed to distribute VOOM on DISH Network (in years) Minimum number of offered channels per the affiliation agreement before termination may be sought under certain circumstances. Minimum Number Of Offered Channels Per Affiliation Agreement Minimum number of offered channels per affiliation agreement Minimum annual spending requirement per the affiliation agreement before termination may be sought under certain circumstances. Minimum Annual Spending Requirement Per Affiliation Agreement Minimum annual spending requirement by VOOM HD per the EchoStar Satellite affiliation agreement Maximum annual spending requirement per the affiliation agreement before termination may be sought under certain circumstances. Maximum Annual Spending Requirement Per Affiliation Agreement Maximum annual spending requirement by VOOM HD per the EchoStar Satellite affiliation agreement Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Damages sought in compensation-related claims Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Share-based Payments, by Title of Individual [Axis] Title Of Individual With Relationship To Entity [Domain] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Cablevision Allocation [Member] Cablevision Allocation [Member] Cablevision Allocation [Member] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Employee Service Share Based Compensation Allocation Of Recognized Period Costs Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Liability Classified Awards [Member] Liability Classified Awards [Member] Liability Classified Awards [Member] Equity Classified Awards [Member] Equity Classified Awards [Member] Equity Classified Awards [Member] AMC Networks Class A Common Stock Restricted On The Same Basis As The Underlying Cablevision Restricted Shares Vested [Member] Amc Networks Class Common Stock Restricted On Same Basis As Underlying Cablevision Restricted Shares Vested [Member] AMC Networks Class A Common Stock Restricted On The Same Basis As The Underlying Cablevision Restricted Shares Vested [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted Awards granted in period Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Grants In Period Subject To Performance Condition Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Grants In Period Subject To Performance Condition Awards granted in period whereby subject to performance condition Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Award vesting period Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Share-based compensation expense allocations related to Cablevision equity classified awards prior to the Distribution Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Total Share-based compensation expense Other Labor-related Expenses Long-term incentive plan compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Total unrecognized share-based compensation costs Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Total unrecognized share-based compensation costs, remaining period of recognition (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested Vested Number of shares vested in period Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation Shares surrendered to Company for tax withholding Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation Aggregate value of shares surrendered Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Forfeited Forfeited Forfeited unvested restricted shares Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Inputs Level1 [Member] Level I [Member] Fair Value Inputs Level2 [Member] Level II [Member] Fair Value Inputs Level3 [Member] Level III [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Cash equivalents Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value Interest rate swap contracts Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value By Balance Sheet Grouping Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Carrying Reported Amount Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Carrying Amount [Member] Estimate Of Fair Value Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimated Fair Value [Member] Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Credit facility debt This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure and may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. This item represents notes with the highest claim on the assets of the issuer in case of bankruptcy or liquidation. Senior note holders are paid in full before junior note holders. Senior Long Term Notes, Fair Value Disclosure Senior notes This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure and may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. This item represents the total debt instruments as of the balance sheet date. Debt, Longterm And Shortterm, Combined Amount, Fair Value Disclosure Debt instruments Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration of risk percentage No single customer constitute concentration of risk Minimum Required Threshold [Member] Minimum Required Threshold [Member] Minimum Required Threshold [Member] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue Services Net [Member] Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member] Major Customers [Axis] Name Of Major Customer [Domain] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Customer 1 Customer1 [Member] Customer 1 [Member] Customer 2 [Member] Customer2 [Member] Customer 2 [Member] Percentage of Common Stock Owned By Related Party Percentage of Common Stock Owned By Related Party Percentage of common stock owned by related party Aggregate Voting Power Held By Related Party Aggregate Voting Power Held By Related Party Aggregate voting power held by related party Cash Flows [Table] Cash Flows [Table] Employee Compensation And Benefit Plans And Programs [Axis] Employee Compensation And Benefit Plans And Programs [Axis] Employee Compensation And Benefit Plans And Programs [Domain] Employee Compensation And Benefit Plans And Programs [Domain] Employee Compensation And Benefit Plans And Programs [Domain] Cablevision Excess Savings Plan [Member] Cablevision Excess Savings Plan [Member] Cablevision Excess Savings Plan [Member] Cablevision Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan [Member] Cablevision Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan [Member] Cablevision Excess Cash Balance Pension Plan [Member] Cash Flows [Line Items] Cash Flows [Line Items] Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Gross, Noncurrent Principal amount of promissory note Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Interest income Noncash Capital Distribution Of Note Receivable To Related Party Noncash Capital Distribution Of Note Receivable To Related Party Capital distribution for the transfer of a promissory note receivable to Cablevision (see Promissory Note discussion below) Distribution of promissory note including accrued and unpaid interest Accounts Receivable, Net Net receivable Accounts Receivable, Net, Total The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in accrued employee related costs to related party. Increase Decrease In Related Parties Employee Related Liabilities Increase in accrued employee related costs assumed from Cablevision Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities, Total Increase in accrued employee related costs assumed from Cablevision Capital distribution to related party related to employee benefit plans as a result of the spin-off transaction. Capital Distribution To Related Party, Related To Employee Benefit Plans Capital distribution related to benefit accounts Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan Unfunded liability in cash balance pension plan Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Ending Balance Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Beginning Balance Unfunded liability in cash balance pension plan Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Status of Plan, Total Increase (Decrease) in Due to Affiliates Increase in due to affiliates Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties, Total The capital distribution of debt issued to Related Party in connection with the spinoff transaction. Noncash Capital Distribution Of Debt To Related Party Deemed capital distribution associated with the issuance of debt to Cablevision (see Issuance of Debt to Cablevision discussion below) Debt distributed to CSC Holdings Increase in Income Taxes Paid, After Utilization of Net Operating Losses Increase in Income Taxes Paid, After Utilization of Net Operating Losses Increase in income taxes paid, after utilization of NOLs Noncash Capital Contribution Related To Utilization Of Related Party Tax Losses By Company Noncash Capital Contribution Related To Utilization Of Related Party Tax Losses By Company Deemed capital contributions related to the utilization of Cablevision tax losses The capital contribution from related party related to taxes in connection with the spinoff transaction. Noncash Capital Contribution, Net, From Related Party, Related To Taxes Deemed capital contribution, net related to adjustments to liability for uncertain tax positions and net deferred tax assets as a result of the Distribution Capital distribution to related party related to employee benefit plans as a result of the spinoff transaction. Noncash Capital Distribution To Related Party Employee Benefit Plans Deemed capital distribution to Cablevision related to employee benefit plans as a result of the Distribution (see Employee Matters Agreement discussion below) Deemed capital distribution to Cablevision related to employee benefit plans as a result of the Distribution (see Employee Matters Agreement discussion below) Deemed Capital Contribution Related To Allocation Of Related Party Share Based Compensation Expense Deemed Capital Contribution Related To Allocation Of Related Party Share Based Compensation Expense Deemed capital contribution related to the allocation of Cablevision share-based compensation expense Leasehold Improvements Paid By Landlord Leasehold Improvements Paid By Landlord Leasehold improvements paid by landlord Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Increase in capital lease obligations and related assets Interest Paid Cash interest paid - continuing operations Interest Paid, Total Income Taxes Paid Income taxes paid, net - continuing operations (see Income Taxes Paid discussion below) Income Taxes Paid, Net, Total Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Business Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Inter-segment Eliminations [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Advertising Revenue Advertising Other Revenue, Net Affilliation fee and other Amount of adjusted operating cash flow from continuing operations for the reportable segment. It is a non-GAAP measure that represents operating income (loss) before depreciation and amortization, share-based compensation expense or benefit and restructuring expense or credit. Segment Reporting Information, Adjusted Operating Cash Flow From Continuing Operations Adjusted operating cash flow (deficit) Amount of expense recognized during the period arising from share-based compensation arrangements with employees and directors for the reportable segment. Segment Reporting Information, Share Based Compensation Expense Included In Continuing Operations Share-based compensation expense Share-based compensation expense Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Inter-segment revenues Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member]