Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Condensed Financial Statements [Table]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Axis]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Consolidated Entities [Domain]
Liberty Global Plc
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Operating costs and expenses:
Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Selling, general and administrative (including stock-based compensation)
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Related-party fees and allocations
Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction
Other operating expenses
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Operating income
Operating Income (Loss)
Non-operating income (expense):
Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract]
Interest expense — related-party
Interest Income (Expense), Net
Interest income — related-party
Interest Income, Related Party
Foreign currency transaction gains (losses), net
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax
Other income, net
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Non-operating income (expense)
Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Earnings before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, net
Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Equity In Losses Of Consolidated Subsidiaries Net
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes and equity in losses of consolidated subsidiaries, net.
Equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, net
Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Consolidated Subsidiaries, Net
Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Consolidated Subsidiaries, Net
Income tax expense (benefit)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Discontinued operations - Vodafone Disposal Group, UPC Austria and UPC DTH
Vodafone Disposal Group, UPC Austria, and UPC DTH [Member]
Vodafone Disposal Group, UPC Austria, and UPC DTH [Member]
Discontinued operations - LiLAC Group
LiLAC Disposal Group [Member]
LiLAC Disposal Group [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Adjustments to reconcile earnings (loss) from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Share-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net
Restructuring, Settlement and Impairment Provisions
Amortization of deferred financing costs and non-cash interest
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts
Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on derivative instruments, net
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax
Foreign currency transaction losses (gains), net
Realized and unrealized losses (gains) due to changes in fair values of certain investments and debt, net
Realized And Unrealized Gains (Losses) Due To Changes In Fair Values of Certain Investments and Debt, Net
Realized And Unrealized Gains (Losses) Due To Changes In Fair Values of Certain Investments and Debt, Net
Losses on debt modification and extinguishment, net
Gains (Losses) on Restructuring of Debt
Share of results of affiliates, net
Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Gain on the VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal
Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effects of acquisitions and dispositions:
Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Receivables and other operating assets
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Assets
Payables and accruals
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Dividends from affiliates and others
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds received upon disposition of discontinued operation, net
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested
Capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets
Investments in and loans to affiliates and others
Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates
Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Sales of investments
Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments
Distributions received from affiliates
Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital
Equalization payment related to the VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction
Proceeds from Collection of Advance to Affiliate
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash contributed to the VodafoneZiggo JV in connection with the VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction
Payments for Advance to Affiliate
Other investing activities, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities of continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash used by investing activities of discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Repayments and repurchases of debt and capital lease obligations
Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities
Borrowings of debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Repurchase of Liberty Global ordinary shares
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Distributions by subsidiaries to noncontrolling interest owners
Payments to Noncontrolling Interests
Repurchase by Telenet of its outstanding shares
Payments for Repurchase Stock by Affiliated Entity
Payments for Repurchase Stock by Affiliated Entity
Net cash received (paid) related to derivative instruments
Payments for (Proceeds from) Hedge, Financing Activities
Payment of financing costs and debt premiums
Payment Of Deferred Financing Costs Debt Premiums And Exchange Offer Consideration
Payment Of Deferred Financing Costs Debt Premiums And Exchange Offer Consideration
Value-added taxes (VAT) paid on behalf of the VodafoneZiggo JV
Payments of Value-Added Taxes, Joint Venture
Payments of Value-Added Taxes, Joint Venture
Other financing activities, net
Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities of continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities of discontinued operations
Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash [Abstract]
Continuing operations
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations
Discontinued operations
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Discontinued Operations
Total
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) [Abstract]
Continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations
Discontinued operations - LiLAC Group
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations
Total
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Beginning of year
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Net increase (excluding, during 2017 and 2016, LiLAC Group activity related to cash balances included in discontinued operations)
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations
End of year
Net cash paid for taxes:
Income Taxes Paid, Net [Abstract]
Continuing operations
Income Taxes Paid, Continuing Operations
Income Taxes Paid, Continuing Operations
Discontinued operations
Income Taxes Paid, Discontinued Operations
Income Taxes Paid, Discontinued Operations
Total
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Cash paid for interest:
Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities [Abstract]
Continuing operations
Interest Paid, Continuing Operations
Interest Paid, Continuing Operations
Discontinued operations
Interest Paid, Discontinued Operations
Total
Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities
Details of end of period cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Including Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Restricted cash included in other current assets and other assets, net
Restricted Cash, Current
Restricted cash included in current and long-term assets of discontinued operations
Restricted Cash, Noncurrent
Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
UPC Austria
UPC Austria [Member]
UPC Austria [Member]
Vodafone Disposal Group
Vodafone Disposal Group [Member]
Vodafone Disposal Group [Member]
UPC DTH
UPC DTH [Member]
UPC DTH [Member]
LiLAC Shares
LiLAC Group [Member]
LiLAC Group [Member]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Discontinued Operations
Discontinued Operations [Member]
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member]
Discontinued Operations, Split-off Transaction
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Spinoff [Member]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Assets:
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets [Abstract]
Current assets other than cash
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Current
Property and equipment, net
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Noncurrent
Goodwill
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill, Noncurrent
Other assets, net
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets
Liabilities:
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities [Abstract]
Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Other accrued and current liabilities
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities
Operating results of discontinued operations
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract]
Revenue
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue
Operating income
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss)
Earnings before income taxes
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax
Income tax benefit (expense)
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation
Discontinued operations
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net earnings attributable to Liberty Global shareholders
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Basic earnings from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per Liberty Global share (in dollars per share)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share
Diluted earnings from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (in dollars per share)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share
Basic and diluted loss from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per LiLAC Share (in dollars per share)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic and Diluted Share
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding (LiLAC Shares) - basic and diluted (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Accounting change (note 2)
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption
Aggregate allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
Increase to allowance for doubtful accounts
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Period Increase (Decrease)
Asset retirement obligation
Asset Retirement Obligation
Net earnings from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract]
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract]
Basic (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Diluted (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Numerator:
Numerator [Abstract]
Numerator [Abstract]
Net earnings attributable to holders of Liberty Global Shares (basic EPS computation)
Interest expense on Virgin Media’s 6.50% convertible senior notes
Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax
Net earnings attributable to holders of Liberty Global Shares (diluted EPS computation)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent, Diluted
Denominator:
Denominator [Abstract]
Denominator [Abstract]
Weighted average ordinary shares (basic EPS computation) (in shares)
Incremental shares attributable to the assumed exercise and vesting of share incentive awards (treasury stock method) (in shares)
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Incremental shares attributable to the assumed conversion of Virgin Media’s 6.5% convertible senior notes (in shares)
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities
Weighted average ordinary shares (diluted EPS computation) (in shares)
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]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Title of Individual [Axis]
Title of Individual [Axis]
Relationship to Entity [Domain]
Relationship to Entity [Domain]
CEO
Chief Executive Officer [Member]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Telenet
Telenet [Member]
Telenet [Member]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Axis]
Plan Name [Domain]
Plan Name [Domain]
Liberty Global Incentive Plan
Liberty Global Incentive Plan [Member]
Liberty Global Incentive Plan [Member]
Liberty Global Director Incentive Plan
Liberty Global Director Incentive Plan [Member]
Liberty Global Director Incentive Plan [Member]
2018 PSUs
2018 PSUs [Member]
2018 PSUs [Member]
Liberty Global 2014 Incentive Plans
Liberty Global 2014 Incentive Plans [Member]
Liberty Global 2014 Incentive Plans [Member]
Liberty Global Performance Grant Award
Liberty Global Performance Grant Award [Member]
Liberty Global Performance Grant Award [Member]
Liberty Global Challenge Performance Awards
Liberty Global Challenge Performance Awards [Member]
Liberty Global Challenge Performance Awards [Member]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
SG&A expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Vesting [Axis]
Vesting [Axis]
Vesting [Domain]
Vesting [Domain]
Six Month Anniversary After Grant Date
Six Month Anniversary After Grant Date [Member]
Six Month Anniversary After Grant Date [Member]
Each Quarter Thereafter after Six Month Vest
Each Quarter Thereafter after Six Month Vest [Member]
Each Quarter Thereafter after Six Month Vest [Member]
April 1 and October 1 of 2017
April 1 and October 1 of 2017 [Member]
April 1 and October 1 of 2017 [Member]
April 1, 2019 and October 1, 2019
April 1, 2019 and October 1, 2019 [Member]
April 1, 2019 and October 1, 2019 [Member]
June 24th, 2016
June 24th, 2016 [Member]
June 24th, 2016 [Member]
April 1, 2020
April 1, 2020 [Member]
April 1, 2020 [Member]
October 1, 2020
October 1, 2020 [Member]
October 1, 2020 [Member]
Award Type [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Options, SARs and PSARs
Options, SARs and PSARs [Member]
Options, SARs and PSARs [Member]
Options
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Awards other than Performance-Based Awards
Awards other than Performance-Based Awards [Member]
Awards other than Performance-Based Awards [Member]
PSUs
Performance Shares [Member]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class A
Common Class A [Member]
Class B
Common Class B [Member]
Class C
Common Class C [Member]
Anti-Dilution and Other Adjustment Provisions
Anti-Dilution and Other Adjustment Provisions [Member]
Anti-Dilution and Other Adjustment Provisions [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]
Percent of annual inventive compensation
Shareholder Inventive Program, Percent of Annual Incentive Compensation
Shareholder Inventive Program, Percent of Annual Incentive Compensation
Awards outstanding (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Awards outstanding (in EUR/USD per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Total compensation expense not yet recognized
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Weighted average period remaining for expense recognition
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Share authorized (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Vesting percentage
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage
Award term
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period
Performance period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Period
PSUs earned
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Shares Earned
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Shares Earned
Number of equal or semi-equal installments
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Equal or Semi-Equal Installments
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Equal or Semi-Equal Installments
Granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Adjusted OIBDA CAGR
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Target Performance, Operating Cash Flow Compound Annual Growth Rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Target Performance, Operating Cash Flow Compound Annual Growth Rate
Performance range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Range
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Range
Expected performance earnings for PSUs
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expected Performance
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expected Performance
Number of ordinary share rights for each performance share (in shares)
Number of Ordinary Shares Rights for Each Performance Share
Number of Ordinary Shares Rights for Each Performance Share
Options exercisable and end of period (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]
Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Axis]
Investment, Name [Domain]
Investment, Name [Domain]
VodafoneZiggo JV
VodafoneZiggo JV [Member]
VodafoneZiggo JV [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Threshold percentage of revenue operating cash flows or total assets used to identity reportable segments
Threshold Percentage Of Revenue Operating Cash Flows Or Total Assets Used To Identify Reportable Segments
Threshold Percentage Of Revenue Operating Cash Flows Or Total Assets Used To Identify Reportable Segments.
Performance measures, percentage of reportable segment revenue and operating cash flow presented
Performance Measures Percentage Of Reportable Segment Revenue And Operating Cash Flow Presented
Performance Measures Percentage Of Reportable Segment Revenue And Operating Cash Flow Presented
Percentage of minority interest revenues and expenses included in net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest
Percentage Of Minority Interest Revenues And Expenses From Consolidated Statements Of Operations Included In Net Earnings Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest
Percentage Of Minority Interest Revenues And Expenses From Consolidated Statements Of Operations Included In Net Earnings Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest
Ownership percentage
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Long-lived Assets [Abstract]
Long lived Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
Schedule of Goodwill [Table]
U.K./Ireland
U.K. / Ireland [Member]
U.K. / Ireland [Member]
Belgium
BELGIUM
Switzerland
SWITZERLAND
Central and Eastern Europe
Central and Eastern Europe [Member]
Central and Eastern Europe [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill beginning balance
Goodwill
Acquisitions and related adjustments
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments
Goodwill ending balance
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Former Employees
Former Employees [Member]
Former Employees [Member]
RSUs
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
Number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period
Released from restrictions (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released from Restrictions in Period
The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were released from restrictions during the reporting period.
Outstanding at end of period (in shares)
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share
Weighted average grant date fair value per share [Abstract]
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted (in dollars per shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Forfeited (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Released from restrictions (in dollars per shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released From Restrictions in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that were released from restrictions during the period.
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per shares)
Weighted average remaining contractual term, in years
Weighted average remaining term [Abstract]
Weighted average remaining term
Outstanding at end of period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common stock, nominal value (in dollars per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, issued (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, outstanding (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Total operating activities
Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Operating Activities
Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Operating Activities
Total investing activities
Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities
Total financing activities
Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities
Total
Payments For Proceeds From Derivatives Continuing Operations
Payments For Proceeds From Derivatives Continuing Operations
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain]
Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain]
Network and connectivity commitments
Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member]
Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member]
Programming commitments
Programming Commitments [Member]
Programming Commitments [Member]
Purchase commitments
Purchase Commitments [Member]
Purchase Commitments [Member]
Operating leases
Operating Leases [Member]
Operating Leases [Member]
Other commitments
Other Commitments [Member]
Other Commitments [Member]
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items]
2019
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months
2020
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years
2021
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years
2022
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years
2023
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years
Thereafter
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years
Total
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Interest receivables — related-party
Accounts Receivable, Related Parties, Current
Other receivables — related-party
Due from Other Related Parties, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Long-term notes receivable — related-party
Notes Receivable, Related Parties, Noncurrent
Investments in consolidated subsidiaries, including intercompany balances
Investments In Consolidated Subsidiaries Including Intercompany Balances Net
Investments In Consolidated Subsidiaries Including Intercompany Balances Net.
Other assets, net
Other Assets
Total assets
Assets
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Other payables — related-party
Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current
Current portion of notes payable — related-party
Notes Payable, Related Parties, Current
Accrued liabilities and other
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Long-term notes payable — related-party
Notes Payable, Related Parties, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities — related-party
Due to Related Parties, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies
Common stock
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Accumulated deficit
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings, net of taxes
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Treasury shares, at cost
Treasury Stock, Value
Total stockholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total liabilities and equity
Liabilities and Equity
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plans
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block]
Loss Contingencies [Table]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Interkabel Acquisition
Interkabel Acquisition [Member]
Interkabel Acquisition [Member]
Deutsche Telekom Litigation
Deutsche Telekom Litigation [Member]
Deutsche Telekom Litigation [Member]
Belgium Regulatory Developments
Belgium Regulatory Developments [Member]
Belgium Regulatory Developments [Member]
Virgin Media VAT Matters
Virgin Media VAT Matters [Member]
Virgin Media VAT Matters [Member]
Virgin Media VAT Matters 2
Virgin Media VAT Matters 2 [Member]
Virgin Media VAT Matters 2 [Member]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Unfavorable Regulatory Action
Unfavorable Regulatory Action [Member]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Forecast
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
U.K.
UNITED KINGDOM
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Programming and copyright costs
Programming and Copyright Costs
Programming and Copyright Costs
Rent expense under non-cancelable operating lease arrangements
Operating Leases, Rent Expense
Aggregate expense for matching contributions under various defined contribution plans
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount
Loss contingency damages in excess value
Loss Contingency Damages In Excess Value
Loss Contingency Damages In Excess Value
Damages sought
Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value
Percent of Reduction in Monthly Wholesale Cable Resale Access Prices
Percent of Reduction in Monthly Wholesale Cable Resale Access Prices
Percent of Reduction in Monthly Wholesale Cable Resale Access Prices
Reduction of annual lease fees
Reduction of Annual Lease Fees
Reduction of Annual Lease Fees
Estimate of possible loss
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss
Income tax paid
Income Taxes Paid
Interest expense
Income Tax Examination, Interest Expense
Loss contingency accrual
Loss Contingency Accrual
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Interest Rate Cap
Interest Rate Cap [Member]
Interest Rate Collar
Interest Rate Collar [Member]
Interest Rate Collar
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of derivative
Derivative, Notional Amount
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Domestic and Foreign Components of Loss from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Income Tax Expense Benefit
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Benefit (Expense) Reconciliation
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Current And Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets And Liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards
Summary of Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table Text Block]
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block]
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract]
Non-cash borrowings and repayments of debt
Non-Cash Borrowings and Repayments of Debt
Non-Cash Borrowings and Repayments of Debt
Performance-based incentive awards
Performance-Based Incentive Awards [Member]
Performance-Based Incentive Awards [Member]
Non-performance based share-based incentive awards
Non-Performance Based Awards [Member]
Non-Performance Based Awards [Member]
Other
Other Share-Based Incentive Awards [Member]
Other Share-Based Incentive Awards [Member]
Telenet share-based incentive awards
Telenet Share-Based Incentive Awards [Member]
Telenet Share-Based Incentive Awards [Member]
Other
Other Stock Plan [Member]
Other Stock Plan [Member]
Other operating expenses
Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member]
Allocated share-based compensation expense
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Investments [Abstract]
Investments
Investment Holdings [Text Block]
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract
Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member]
ITV Collar
ITV Collar [Member]
ITV Collar [Member]
Sumitomo Collar
Sumitomo Collar [Member]
Relating to the Sumitomo Collar
Lionsgate Loan
Lionsgate Loan [Member]
Lionsgate Loan [Member]
Lionsgate Forward
Lionsgate Forward [Member]
Lionsgate Forward [Member]
Counterparty Credit Risk
Counterparty Credit Risk [Member]
Counterparty Credit Risk [Member]
Virgin Media
Virgin Media [Member]
Virgin Media [Member]
UPC Holding
UPC Holding [Member]
UPC Holding [Member]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Nonvoting Common Stock
Nonvoting Common Stock [Member]
Gain (loss) on change in credit risk valuation included in realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net
Gain Loss On Credit Risk Derivatives Net Recognized In Earnings
Gain Loss On Credit Risk Derivatives Net Recognized In Earnings
Notional amount of derivative instruments without exchange of notional amounts at inception and maturity
Notional Amount of Derivative Instruments without Exchange of Notional Amounts at Inception and Maturity
Notional Amount of Derivative Instruments without Exchange of Notional Amounts at Inception and Maturity
Derivative asset fair value
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset
Number of common stock shares owned (in shares)
Investment Owned, Balance, Shares
Shares needed to borrow from custody account to hedge exposure (in shares)
Shares Needed to Borrow from Custody Account to Hedge Exposure
Shares Needed to Borrow from Custody Account to Hedge Exposure
Aggregate market value of borrowed Sumitomo shares
Securities Borrowed for which No Value is Paid or Credited
Assets - derivative instruments
Derivative Asset
2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
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
Thereafter
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Net carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Summary of stock-based compensation
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]
Stock compensation assumptions
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block]
Stock options activity
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Other-than-options activity
Schedule of Other Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]
Pro Forma Information for Significant Acquisitions
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
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]
SFR BeLux
SFR BeLux [Member]
SFR BeLux [Member]
BASE
BASE [Member]
BASE [Member]
CWC
CWC [Member]
CWC [Member]
Viking Co NV
Viking Co NV [Member]
Viking Co NV [Member]
Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC)
Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member]
Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member]
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]
Mobile Spectrum
Mobile Spectrum [Member]
Mobile Spectrum [Member]
Customer relationships
Customer Relationships [Member]
Trademarks
Trademarks [Member]
Liberty Global Shares
Liberty Global Group [Member]
Liberty Global Group [Member]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Cost of acquired entity
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Committed facilities to fund transaction costs
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred
Ownership percentage, noncontrolling interest
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent
Weighted average useful life of acquired intangible assets
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life
Direct acquisition costs
Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs
Business acquisition consideration issued (in shares)
Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares
Special dividend issuable at closing (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Special Dividend Issuable at Closing
Business Acquisition, Special Dividend Issuable at Closing
Share price (in dollar/euro per share)
Share Price
Inter-group interest distributed (in shares)
Business Acquisition, Inter-Group Interest Distributed
Business Acquisition, Inter-Group Interest Distributed
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations
Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member]
VodafoneZiggo Holding
VodafoneZiggo Holding [Member]
VodafoneZiggo Holding [Member]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Axis]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Counterparty Name [Domain]
Vodafone
Vodafone [Member]
Vodafone [Member]
Co-venturer ownership percentage
Equity Method Investment, Co-Venturer Ownership Percentage
Equity Method Investment, Co-Venturer Ownership Percentage
Proceeds from divestiture of business
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses
Proceeds from various debt financing arrangements
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Gain on the VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction (note 6)
Cumulative foreign currency translation loss
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses)
Earnings (loss) before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Individually Significant Component Disposed of or Held-for-sale, Excluding Discontinued Operations, Attributable to Parent, before Income Tax
SARs and PSARs
SARs and PSARs [Member]
SARs and PSARs [Member]
SARs
Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member]
Options and SARs
Options and SARs [Member]
Options and SARs [Member]
Number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Options outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)
Options granted (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures
Options expired, cancelled or forfeited (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period
Options exercised (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Options outstanding at end of period (in shares)
Weighted average exercise price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Options outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per shares)
Options granted (in dollars per shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options expired, cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options exercised (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options outstanding at end of period (in dollars per shares)
Options exercisable at end of period (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Options outstanding at end of period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Options exercisable at end of period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Aggregate intrinsic value
Aggregate intrinsic value [Abstract]
Aggregate intrinsic value
Options outstanding at end of period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Options exercisable at end of period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Trade receivables, net
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Derivative instruments (note 8)
Derivative Asset, Current
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid Expense, Current
Current assets of discontinued operations (note 6)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current
Other current assets (notes 4 and 7)
Investments and related notes receivable (including $1,174.8 million and $2,315.3 million, respectively, measured at fair value on a recurring basis) (note 7)
Long-term Investments
Property and equipment, net (note 10)
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill (note 10)
Deferred tax assets (note 12)
Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net
Long-term assets of discontinued operations (note 6)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent
Other assets, net (notes 4, 8, 10 and 12)
Other Assets, Noncurrent
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Deferred revenue
Contract with Customer, Liability, Current
Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations (note 11)
Debt, Current
Accrued capital expenditures
Accrued Capital Expenditures, Current
Accrued Capital Expenditures, Current
Current liabilities of discontinued operations (note 6)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current
Other accrued and current liabilities (notes 8 and 15)
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (note 11)
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Long-term liabilities of discontinued operations (note 6)
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent
Other long-term liabilities (notes 8, 12, 15 and 16)
Commitments and contingencies (notes 5, 8, 11, 12, 16 and 18)
Equity (note 13):
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Liberty Global shareholders:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Treasury shares, at cost
Total Liberty Global shareholders
Noncontrolling interests
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Total equity
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Due From Counterparty
Due From Counterparty [Member]
Due From Counterparty [Member]
Due To Counterparty
Due To Counterparty [Member]
Due To Counterparty [Member]
Interest Rate Swap
Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Interest Rate Swaption 1
Interest Rate Swaption 1 [Member]
Interest Rate Swaption 1 [Member]
Interest Rate Swaption 2
Interest Rate Swaption 2 [Member]
Interest Rate Swaption 2 [Member]
Interest Rate Swaption
Interest Rate Swaption [Member]
Basis Swaps
Basis Swap [Member]
Weighted average remaining life
Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity
Weighted average strike rate
Derivative, Average Swaption Interest Rate
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
VM Senior Secured Notes
VM Senior Secured Notes [Member]
VM Senior Secured Notes [Member]
VM Credit Facilities
VM Credit Facilities [Member]
VM Credit Facilities [Member]
VM Senior Notes
VM Senior Notes [Member]
VM Senior Notes [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility
Telenet Credit Facility [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility [Member]
Telenet Senior Secured Notes
Telenet Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Telenet Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Telenet SPE Notes
Telenet SPE Notes [Member]
Telenet SPE Notes [Member]
UPCB SPE Notes
UPCB SPE Notes Debt [Member]
UPCB SPE Notes Debt [Member]
UPC Holding Bank Facility
UPC Holding Bank Facility Debt [Member]
UPC Holding Bank Facility Debt [Member]
UPC Holding Senior Notes
UPC Holding Senior Notes Debt [Member]
UPC Holding Senior Notes Debt [Member]
Vendor financing
Vendor Financing [Member]
Vendor Financing [Member]
ITV Collar Loan
ITV Collar Loan [Member]
ITV Collar Loan [Member]
Derivative-related debt instruments
Derivative Related Debt Instruments [Member]
Derivative Related Debt Instruments [Member]
Sumitomo Share Loan
Sumitomo Share Loan [Member]
Sumitomo Share Loan [Member]
Sumitomo Collar Loan
Sumitomo Collar Loan Debt [Member]
Sumitomo Collar Loan Debt [Member]
Other
Other Debt [Member]
Other Debt [Member]
Other
Other Subsidiaries [Member]
Relating to Other Subsidiaries not otherwise identified.
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Weighted average interest rate
Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate
Unused borrowing capacity
Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount
Total debt before deferred financing costs, discounts and premiums
Long-term Debt, Gross
Deferred financing costs, discounts and premiums, net
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Total carrying amount of debt
Long-term Debt
Capital lease obligations
Capital Lease Obligations
Total debt and capital lease obligations
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities
Current maturities of debt and capital lease obligations
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations
Schedule of Fair Values of Derivative Instrument Assets and Liabilities
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Realized and Unrealized Losses on Derivative Instruments
Schedule Of Realized And Unrealized Gains Losses On Derivative Instruments Text Block
Schedule Of Realized And Unrealized Gains Losses On Derivative Instruments.
Schedule of Cash Received (Paid) Related to Derivative Instruments Statement of Cash Flows Location
Schedule Of Cash Received Paid Related To Derivative Instruments Statement Of Cash Flows Location Text Block
Schedule Of Cash Received Paid Related To Derivative Instruments Statement Of Cash Flows Location.
Schedule of Derivative Instruments
Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block]
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis Of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation [Table]
Basis of Presentation [Table]
Liberty Puerto Rico
Liberty Puerto Rico [Member]
Liberty Puerto Rico [Member]
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Basis of Presentation [Table]
Principal Transaction Revenue [Table]
Principal Transaction Revenue [Table]
Principal Transaction Revenue, Description of Reporting Category [Axis]
Principal Transaction Revenue, Description of Reporting Category [Axis]
Name of Reporting Category [Domain]
Name of Reporting Category [Domain]
Total residential cable revenue
Cable [Member]
Cable [Member]
Total subscription revenue
Cable Subscription [Member]
Cable Subscription [Member]
Video
Cable Video Subscription [Member]
Cable Video Subscription [Member]
Broadband internet
Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member]
Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member]
Fixed-line telephony
Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member]
Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member]
Non-subscription revenue
Cable Non-Subscription [Member]
Cable Non-Subscription [Member]
Total residential revenue
Residential [Member]
Residential [Member]
Total residential mobile revenue
Mobile Residential [Member]
Mobile Residential [Member]
Subscription revenue
Mobile Subscription [Member]
Mobile Subscription [Member]
Non-subscription revenue
Mobile Non-Subscription [Member]
Mobile Non-Subscription [Member]
Total B2B revenue
Business to Business [Member]
Business to Business [Member]
Subscription revenue
Business to Business Subscription [Member]
Business to Business Subscription [Member]
Non-subscription revenue
Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member]
Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member]
Other revenue
Other Category [Member]
Other Category [Member]
Principal Transaction Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue
Revenues
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table]
Equity-related derivative instruments
Equity Contract [Member]
Foreign currency forward contracts
Foreign Exchange Forward [Member]
Other Contract
Other Contract [Member]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Assets:
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Not Offset Against Collateral [Abstract]
Current
Long-term
Derivative Asset, Noncurrent
Total
Liability:
Derivative Liability [Abstract]
Current
Derivative Liability, Current
Long-term
Derivative Liability, Noncurrent
Total
Derivative Liability
The Netherlands
NETHERLANDS
Central and Corporate
Central and Corporate [Member]
Central and Corporate [Member]
Total property and equipment additions
Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions
Assets acquired under capital-related vendor financing arrangements
Assets Acquired Under Capital-Related Vendor Financing Arrangements
Assets Acquired Under Capital-Related Vendor Financing Arrangements
Assets acquired under capital leases
Capital Lease Obligations Incurred
Changes in current liabilities related to capital expenditures
Increase Decrease in Current Liabilities Related to Capital Expenditures
Increase Decrease in Current Liabilities Related to Capital Expenditures
Total capital expenditures, net
Payments for Capital Improvements
Third-party payments
Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets
Proceeds received for transfers to related parties
Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates
Property and equipment additions - VodafoneZiggo JV
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Payment to Acquire Property, Plant and Equipment
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Payment to Acquire Property, Plant and Equipment
Schedule of defined benefit plans
Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block]
Income Taxes [Table]
Income Taxes [Table]
Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis]
Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis]
Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain]
Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain]
U.S.
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member]
The Netherlands
Tax and Customs Administration, Netherlands [Member]
Belgium
Administration of the Treasury, Belgium [Member]
U.K.
Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) [Member]
Switzerland
Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) [Member]
Other
Other Income Tax Authority [Member]
Other Income Tax Authority [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Income Taxes [Table]
Current
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total
Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Current
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Current
Current Other Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current Other Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred
Deferred Other Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Other Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total
Other Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Other Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Current
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred
Total income tax benefit (expense)
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Assets Held under Capital Leases
Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Depreciation expense
Depreciation, Nonproduction
Property and equipment, net
Non-cash increases to PP&E related to vendor financing arrangements
Property Plant And Equipment, Additions, Vendor Financing Arrangement
Property Plant And Equipment, Additions, Vendor Financing Arrangement
Value added tax, vendor financing arrangement
Value Added Tax, Vendor Financing Arrangement
Value Added Tax, Vendor Financing Arrangement
Amortization of intangible assets
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Pension-related adjustments and other
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Operating Activities [Axis]
Operating Activities [Axis]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Total - continuing operations
Continuing Operations [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]
Other comprehensive loss, pre-tax amount
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax
Other comprehensive loss, tax benefit (expense)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax
Other comprehensive earnings (loss)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Other comprehensive earnings attributable to Liberty Latin America shareholders, pre-tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Other comprehensive earnings attributable to Liberty Latin America shareholders, tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Other comprehensive earnings attributable to Liberty Latin America shareholders, net
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent
Dispositions and the VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]
Equity [Abstract]
PSUs, PGUs, RSUs
PSUs, PGUs and RSUs [Member]
PSUs, PGUs and RSUs [Member]
Common reserved for issuance (in shares)
Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance
Cash and cash equivalents
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents
Other current assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other
Property and equipment, net
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Goodwill
Intangible assets subject to amortization
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles
Other assets, net
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets
Other accrued and current liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Other
Other long-term liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other
Total purchase price
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Liberty Global Class A & C ordinary shares
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable
Special Dividend
Business Acquisition, Special Dividend
Business Acquisition, Special Dividend
Cost of acquired entity
Schedule of Investments [Table]
All3Media
All3Media [Member]
All3Media [Member]
JV Services
JV Services [Member]
JV Services [Member]
ITV
ITV [Member]
ITV [Member]
Sumitomo Corporation (Sumitomo)
Sumitomo [Member]
Sumitomo [Member]
ITI Neovision S.A. (ITI Neovision)
ITI Neovision [Member]
ITI Neovision [Member]
Lions Gate Entertainment Corp (Lionsgate)
Lionsgate [Member]
Lionsgate [Member]
Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa)
Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa) [Member]
Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa) [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
VodafoneZiggo JV Loan
VodafoneZiggo JV Loan [Member]
VodafoneZiggo JV Loan [Member]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party [Domain]
Related Party [Domain]
Equity Method Investee
Equity Method Investee [Member]
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Related party note receivable
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Face Amount
Related party note receivable rate
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Effective Yield (Interest Rate)
Related party note receivable in year one
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year One
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year One
Related party note receivable in year two
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year Two
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year Two
Related party note receivable in year three
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year Three
Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year Three
Interest accrued on receivable
Proceeds from Interest Received
Percent of interest income earned
Percent of Interest Income Earned on Loan Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Percent of Interest Income Earned on Loan Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Percent of share-based compensation included
Percent of Share-based Compensation Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Percent of Share-based Compensation Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments
Term to distribute all unrestricted cash
Equity Method Investment, Term to Distribute All Unrestricted Cash
Equity Method Investment, Term to Distribute All Unrestricted Cash
Leverage ratio
Equity Method Investment, Leverage Ratio
Equity Method Investment, Leverage Ratio
Value-added taxes (VAT) paid on behalf of the VodafoneZiggo JV
Continuing and required services term
Equity Method Investment, Continuing and Required Services Term
Equity Method Investment, Continuing and Required Services Term
Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments
Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments
Due from related parties
Due from Related Parties
Percent of investment owned (less than 5% for Sumitomo and Lionsgate)
Investment Owned, Percent of Net Assets
Share price (in dollars per share)
Investment Acquired, Price Per Share
Investment Acquired, Price Per Share
Investment owned
Investment Owned, at Cost
Proceeds from derivative instrument
Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities
Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method
Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method [Table Text Block]
Summarized Financial Condition
Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block]
Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument
Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member]
Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member]
Foreign Exchange Contract
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net
Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Distributable reserves recognized
Distributable Reserves Recognized
Distributable Reserves Recognized
Authorized amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Stock repurchase, remaining authorized amount
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount
Shares purchased pursuant to repurchase programs (in shares)
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Average price paid per share pursuant to repurchase programs (in dollars per shares)
Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share
Total cost for stock purchased pursuant to repurchase programs
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Member]
UPC Switzerland
UPC Switzerland [Member]
UPC Switzerland [Member]
Sunrise Communications Group AG
Sunrise Communications Group AG [Member]
Sunrise Communications Group AG [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Consideration for disposal
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration
Liabilities assumed
Liabilities Assumed
Term of transitional services
Disposal Group, Term of Transitional Services
Disposal Group, Term of Transitional Services
Schedule of Debt
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Maturities of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Accounting Changes and Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block]
Long-lived assets
Long-Lived Assets
Total assets
Total assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets
Derivative Instruments
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
Adjusted OIBDA from continuing operations
Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) before Depreciation and Amortization
Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) before Depreciation and Amortization
Share-based compensation expense
Depreciation and amortization
Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net
Interest expense
Interest Expense
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) due to changes in fair values of certain investments and debt, net (notes 7, 9 and 11)
Losses on debt modification and extinguishment, net (note 11)
Share of results of affiliates, net
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes.
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Equity
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain]
ASU 2014-09 Adjustments
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member]
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07
Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member]
Accumulated deficit
Retained Earnings [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Assets:
Current assets of discontinued operations
Investments and related note receivables
Deferred tax assets
Long-term assets of discontinued operations
Other assets, net
Liabilities:
Liabilities [Abstract]
Current liabilities of discontinued operations
Other accrued and current liabilities
Long-term liabilities of discontinued operations
Equity:
Accounting change
Disposal groups, including discontinued operations
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Schedule details of net earnings (loss)
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Schedule of weighted average shares outstanding
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]
Computed “expected” tax benefit (expense)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
Mandatory Repatriation Tax
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Basis and other differences in the treatment of items associated with investments in subsidiaries and affiliates
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount
Non-deductible or non-taxable interest and other expenses
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount
Non-deductible or non-taxable foreign currency exchange results
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount
Recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits
Income Tax Reconciliation, Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Income Tax Reconciliation, Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Change in valuation allowances
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Enacted tax law and rate changes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount
International rate differences
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Tax benefit associated with technologies innovation
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Amount
Tax effect of intercompany financing
Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Effect of Intercompany Financing
Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Effect of Intercompany Financing
Other, net
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount
Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
Restatement [Axis]
Restatement [Axis]
Restatement [Domain]
Restatement [Domain]
As previously reported
Previously Reported [Member]
Restatement adjustment
Restatement Adjustment [Member]
Vodafone Disposal Group and UPC Austria
Vodafone Disposal Group and UPC Austria [Member]
Vodafone Disposal Group and UPC Austria [Member]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
Operating income (loss)
Effect of Accounting Change (note 2)
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Effect of Change on Operating Results
Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders
Basic earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (notes 3 and 6) (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (notes 3 and 6) (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Basic and diluted loss attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (notes 3 and 5) (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [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]
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Investments measured at fair value
Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure
Total assets
Assets, Fair Value Disclosure
Liabilities - derivative instruments
Debt
Long-term Debt, Fair Value
Total liabilities
Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Operating Segments
Operating Segments [Member]
Geography Eliminations
Geography Eliminations [Member]
Ireland
IRELAND
Poland
POLAND
Slovakia
SLOVAKIA
U.S. and other
U.S. and Other [Member]
U.S. and Other [Member]
Revenue
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue
Long-lived assets
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at January 1
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions
Reductions for tax positions of prior years
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions
Foreign currency translation
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Resulting From Foreign Currency Translation
Unrecognized tax benefits resulting from foreign currency translation.
Lapse of statute of limitations
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations
Settlements with tax authorities
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities
Balance at December 31
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document and Entity Information [Table]
Document and Entity Information [Table]
Document and Entity Information [Line Items]
[Line Items] for Document and Entity Information [Table]
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 Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
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 (in shares)
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Shell Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
2021
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
2022
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
2023
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Total debt maturities
Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual Maturities
Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual Maturities
Total debt
Long-term Debt Contractual Maturities
Long-term Debt Contractual Maturities
Total carrying amount of debt
Current portion
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities
Noncurrent portion
Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities
Revenue and operating cash flow by segment
Schedule Of Revenue and Operating Cash Flow Segment Reporting Information By Segment [Table Text Block]
Segment Revenue, & OCF year over year comparison.
Reconciliation of total segment operating cash flow from continuing operations to loss from continuing operations before income taxes
Schedule of Reconciliation of Total Segment Operating Cash Flow From Continuing Operations to Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Reconciliation of Total Segment Operating Cash Flow From Continuing Operations to Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes [Table Text Block]
Balance sheet data of reportable segments
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Capital expenditures of reportable segments
Schedule of Reporting Capital Expenditures of Reportable Segments [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Reporting Capital Expenditures of Reportable Segments [Table Text Block]
Revenue by major category
Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block]
Revenue by geographic segments
Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]
Long-lived assets by geographic segments
Long-lived Assets by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
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]
Line of Credit
Line of Credit [Member]
Medium-term Notes
Medium-term Notes [Member]
Extinguishment of Debt [Axis]
Extinguishment of Debt [Axis]
Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain]
Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt
Long-term Debt [Member]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
LIBOR
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
EURIBOR
EURIBOR [Member]
EURIBOR [Member]
2023 VM Dollar Senior Notes
2023 VM Dollar Senior Notes [Member]
2023 VM Dollar Senior Notes [Member]
2023 VM Sterling Senior Notes
2023 VM Sterling Senior Notes [Member]
2023 VM Sterling Senior Notes [Member]
UPC Facility AR
UPC Facility AR [Member]
UPC Facility AR [Member]
UPC Facility AS
UPC Facility AS [Member]
UPC Facility AS [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AO
Telenet Credit Facility AO [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AO [Member]
UPC Facility AK
UPC Facility AK [Member]
UPC Facility AK [Member]
UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes
UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member]
UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AB
Telenet Credit Facility AB [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AB [Member]
Telenet Finance VI Notes
Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member]
Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member]
Telenet Facility AL Add-on
Telenet Facility AL Add-on [Member]
Telenet Facility AL Add-on [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AL
Telenet Credit Facility AL [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AL [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility V
Telenet Credit Facility V [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility V [Member]
Telenet Finance V Notes
Telenet Finance V Notes [Member]
Telenet Finance V Notes [Member]
Telenet Facility AN
Telenet Facility AN [Member]
Telenet Facility AN [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AM
Telenet Credit Facility AM [Member]
Telenet Credit Facility AM [Member]
Telenet Facility AN Add-on
Telenet Facility AN Add-on [Member]
Telenet Facility AN Add-on [Member]
Telenet Facility AO Add-on
Telenet Facility AO Add-on [Member]
Telenet Facility AO Add-on [Member]
Extinguishment of debt
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount
Original issue amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Stated interest rate of debt
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Losses (gains) on debt modification and extinguishment
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt
Payment for debt redemption premium
Payments For Debt Redemption Premium
Payments For Debt Redemption Premium
Write-off of unamortized debt discount and deferred financing cost
Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Cost
Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Cost
Write-off of unamortized debt discount (premium)
Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount (Premium)
Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount (Premium)
Third-party debt modification costs
Third-Party Debt Modification Costs
Third-Party Debt Modification Costs
Outstanding principal amount
Percentage of principal amount redeemed
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed
Basis spread on variable rate
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Floor interest rate
Debt Instrument, Floor Interest Rate
Debt Instrument, Floor Interest Rate
Original issue price
Debt Instrument, Original Issue Price, Percentage
The issue price of the debt instrument, expressed as a percentage of the principal amount.
Dividends
Dividends
Assumptions used to estimate fair value of options, SARs and PSARs granted:
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract]
Risk-free interest rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Expected life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Expected volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Expected dividend yield
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of awards granted, options (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of awards granted, other than options (in dollars per share)
Total intrinsic value of awards exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Cash received from exercise of options
Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options
Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation of our continuing operations (in millions)
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Reclassifications
Reclassifications [Text Block]
Principles of Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Trade Receivables
Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Investments
Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Derivative Instruments
Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment of Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets
Impairment of Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block]
Describes an entity's accounting policy for recognizing and measuring the impairment of long-lived assets, which includes intangible assets.
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions
Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block]
Share-based Compensation
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Litigation Costs
Legal Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings or Loss per Ordinary Share
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
SCHEDULE I (Parent Company Information)
Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Pension- related adjustments and other
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss)
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member]
Noncontrolling interests
AOCI Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Total accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss)
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance
Other comprehensive earnings (loss)
Impact of the Split-off Transaction
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Impact of Split-off Transaction
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Impact of Split-off Transaction
Ending balance
Summary of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Balances of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable, or Level 3, Inputs
Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings [Table Text Block]
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net
Net deferred tax asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Distribution systems
Distribution Systems [Member]
Distribution Systems [Member]
Customer premises equipment
Customer Premises Equipment [Member]
Customer Premises Equipment [Member]
Support equipment, buildings and land
Support Equipment, Buildings and Land [Member]
Support Equipment, Buildings and Land [Member]
Estimated useful life
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Total property and equipment, gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Total property and equipment, net
Subsequent Events
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Share-based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Examination [Table]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Income Tax Examination [Line Items]
Intercompany activity with discontinued operations
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue (notes 4, 7 and 19)
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax
Operating costs and expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization, shown separately below):
Costs and Expenses [Abstract]
Programming and other direct costs of services
Cost of Goods and Services Sold
Other operating (note 14)
Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) (note 14)
Depreciation and amortization (note 10)
Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net (notes 5, 15 and 16)
Operating costs and expenses
Costs and Expenses
Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net (note 8)
Share of results of affiliates, net (note 7)
Income tax benefit (expense) (note 12)
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations
Discontinued operations (note 6):
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of taxes
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax
Net earnings (loss)
Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Basic earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (in dollars per share)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share
Diluted earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (in dollars per share)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Axis]
Asset Class [Domain]
Asset Class [Domain]
Investments
Investments [Member]
Cross-currency and interest rate derivative contracts
Equity-related derivative instruments
Equity-Related Derivative Instruments [Member]
Equity-Related Derivative Instruments [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward]
Balance of net assets (liabilities) at January 1, 2018
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value
Gains included in net earnings
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings
Impact of ASU 2016-01
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Impact of ASU
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Impact of ASU
Additions
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases
Dispositions
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales
Settlements
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements
Transfers out of Level 3
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3
Foreign currency translation adjustments, dividends and other, net
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net
Balance of net assets (liabilities) at December 31, 2018
Deferred tax assets:
Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract]
Net operating loss and other carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Property and equipment, net
Deferred Tax Assets Property And Equipment Net
Deferred tax assets property and equipment net.
Debt
Deferred Tax Assets Debt
Deferred tax assets debt.
Investments
Deferred Tax Assets, Investments
Share-based compensation
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost
Derivative instruments
Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments
Intangible assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Other future deductible amounts
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred tax liabilities:
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Intangible assets
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets
Deferred revenue
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Tax Deferred Income
Property and equipment, net
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Investments (including consolidated partnerships)
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investment in Noncontrolled Affiliates
Other future taxable amounts
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table]
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Restructuring Type [Axis]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Type of Restructuring [Domain]
Employee severance and termination
Employee Severance [Member]
Office closures
Facility Closing [Member]
Contract termination
Contract Termination [Member]
Mobile network migration
Other Restructuring [Member]
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Restructuring liability at beginning of year
Restructuring Reserve
Restructuring charges
Restructuring Charges
Cash paid
Payments for Restructuring
BASE liabilities at acquisition date
Restructuring Reserve, Increase (Decrease) from Acquisition
Restructuring Reserve, Increase (Decrease) from Acquisition
Disposal
Restructuring Reserve, Decrease from Disposal
Restructuring Reserve, Decrease from Disposal
Foreign currency translation adjustments and other
Restructuring Reserve, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss)
Restructuring liability at end of year
Current portion
Restructuring Reserve, Current
Noncurrent portion
Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent
Total
Investment [Table]
Investment [Table]
Other
Other Unnamed Investment [Member]
Other Unnamed Investment [Member]
ITV plc (ITV) — subject to re-use rights
ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member]
ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member]
Investment [Line Items]
Investment [Line Items]
Equity
Equity Method Investments
Fair value
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure
Cost
Cost Method Investments
Total
Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures
Summarized Financial Condition
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract]
Net loss
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss)
Current assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets
Total assets
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets
Total assets
Current liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities
Long-term liabilities
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities
Owners’ / Partners' equity
Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity
Noncontrolling interests
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncontrolling Interests
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncontrolling Interests
Total liabilities and owners’ equity
Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity
Restructuring Liabilities
Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block]
UPC Holding Bank Facility
UPC Holding Bank Facility [Member]
UPC Holding Bank Facility [Member]
UPCB SPE Notes
UPCB SPE Notes [Member]
UPCB SPE Notes [Member]
VM Notes
VM Notes [Member]
VM Notes [Member]
Compensatory payment
Disposal Group, Compensatory Payment
Disposal Group, Compensatory Payment
Payments of vendor financing obligations
Repayments of Long-term Loans from Vendors
Cumulative foreign currency translation gains
Revenue from transitional services
Revenue From Transitional Services
Revenue From Transitional Services
Common shares distributed
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Common Share Distribution
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Common Share Distribution
Gain (loss) on discontinued operation
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax
Services agreement term
Services Agreement Term
Services Agreement Term
Services agreement renewal term
Services Agreement Renewal Term
Services Agreement Renewal Term
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Increase (decrease) to borrowing costs
Impact of Derivative Instruments on Borrowing Costs, Percent Increase (Decrease)
Impact of Derivative Instruments on Borrowing Costs, Percent Increase (Decrease)
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Impact of the LiLAC Transaction
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other
Repurchase and cancellation of Liberty Global ordinary shares (note 13)
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value
Impact of acquisitions
Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination
Other
Stockholders' Equity, Other
Schedule of PP&E
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization, Net
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule Of Future Amortization Expense Finite Lived Intangible Assets Text Block
Schedule Of Future Amortization Expense Finite Lived Intangible Assets Text Block
Schedule Of Future Amortization Expense Finite Lived Intangible Assets Text Block
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Ireland
Revenue Commissioners, Ireland [Member]
France
Ministry of the Economy, Finance and Industry, France [Member]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis]
Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain]
Amount attributable to capital losses
Capital Loss Carryforward [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Tax loss carryforward
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Related tax asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Foreign
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes (note 17):
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax
Reclassification adjustments included in net earnings (loss) (note 6)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Net of Tax
Pension-related adjustments and other
Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment And Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease
Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment And Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease
Comprehensive earnings (loss)
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Investments measured at fair value
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Intersegment Eliminations [Member]
Adjusted OIBDA
Net earnings (loss)
Equity in losses (earnings) of consolidated subsidiaries, net
Related-party fees and allocations
Related Party Costs
Other operating expenses
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities
Deferred income tax benefit
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net [Abstract]
Distribution and repayments from (investments in and advances to) consolidated subsidiaries, net
Distributions And Advances From Contributions To Subsidiaries And Affiliates Net
Distributions and advances from contributions to subsidiaries and affiliates net.
Borrowings of related-party debt
Proceeds from Related Party Debt
Repayments of related-party debt
Repayments of Related Party Debt
Proceeds from issuance of Liberty Global shares upon exercise of options
Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised
Proceeds associated with call option contracts, net
Net Cash Proceeds (Payments) Associated With Call Option Contracts
Net Cash Proceeds (Payments) Associated With Call Option Contracts
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue Recognition and Related Costs
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes
Treasury shares, at cost
Treasury Stock [Member]
Total Liberty Global shareholders
Parent [Member]
Non-controlling interests
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Balance, as adjusted for accounting change
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Adjusted Balance
Other comprehensive loss, net of taxes (note 17)
Impact of the LiLAC Transactions
Stockholders' Equity Note, Spinoff Transaction
Distributions by subsidiaries to noncontrolling interest owners (note 13)
Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders
Repurchases by Telenet of its outstanding shares
Subsidiary Purchases of Own Shares, Value
Subsidiary Purchases of Own Shares, Value
Share-based compensation (note 14)
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Liberty Global call option contracts
Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Call Option Contracts
Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital, Call Option Contracts
Adjustments due to changes in subsidiaries’ equity and other, net
Basis of Presentation
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Unrecorded Purchase Obligation
Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss)
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of tax effects related to each component of other comprehensive loss, net
Schedule Of Tax Effects Related To Each Component Of Other Comprehensive Earnings Loss
Schedule summarizing tax effects related to each component of other comprehensive earnings (loss).
Cross-Currency Swap 1
Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 2
Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 3
Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 4
Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 5
Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 6
Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 7
Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 8
Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 9
Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 10
Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 11
Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 12
Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member]
Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member]
Summary of changes in restructuring liabilities during year
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block]
Revenue
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders:
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Basic (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted (in dollars per share)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Net earnings (loss)
Aggregate Variable and Fixed Rate Indebtedness
Aggregate Variable and Fixed Rate Indebtedness [Member]
Aggregate Variable And Fixed Rate Indebtedness [Member]
VM Financing Facilities
VM Financing Facilities [Member]
VM Financing Facilities [Member]
VM Revolving Credit Facility
VM Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
VM Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
VM Revolving Facility A
VM Revolving Facility A [Member]
VM Revolving Facility A [Member]
VM Revolving Facility B
VM Revolving Facility B [Member]
VM Revolving Facility B [Member]
Telenet Facility AG
Telenet Facility AG [Member]
Telenet Facility AG [Member]
Telenet Overdraft Facility
Telenet Overdraft Facility [Member]
Telenet Overdraft Facility [Member]
Telenet Revolving Facility
Telenet Revolving Facility [Member]
Telenet Revolving Facility [Member]
Virgin Media Collateralized Debt
Virgin Media Collateralized Debt [Member]
Virgin Media Collateralized Debt [Member]
Telenet Capital Lease PICs Network
Telenet Capital Lease PICs Network [Member]
Relating to Telenet Capital Lease PICs Network
Senior and Senior Secured Notes
Senior and Senior Secured Notes [Member]
Senior and Senior Secured Notes [Member]
SPE Notes
SPE Notes [Member]
SPE Notes [Member]
Secured Debt
Secured Debt [Member]
Facility amount
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Carrying value
General term of vendor financing arrangements for amounts due
General Term of Vendor Financing Arrangements for Amounts Due
General Term of Vendor Financing Arrangements for Amounts Due
Estimated fair value
Number of associations of municipalities in belgium
Number of Associations of Municipalities in Belgium
Number of Associations of Municipalities in Belgium
Term of lease repayments
Term of Lease Repayments
Term of Lease Repayments
Number of borrowing groups
Number of Borrowing Groups
Number of Borrowing Groups
Mandatory redemption price expressed as percentage of principal amount on senior notes in event that certain assets sold or specific control changed
Mandatory Redemption Price Expressed as Percentage of Principal Amount on Senior Notes in Event that Certain Assets Sold or Specific Control Changed
Mandatory redemption price expressed as percentage of principal amount on senior notes in event that certain assets sold or specific control changed
Redemption term
Debt Instrument, Redemption Term
Debt Instrument, Redemption Term
Redemption price, percentage of principal amount limitation
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Limitation
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Limitation
Redemption price
Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage
Ownership percentage of SPEs by third parties
Ownership Percentage of Special Purpose Financing Entity
Ownership Percentage of Special Purpose Financing Entity
Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Stock Options, SARs and RSUs
Stock Options, SARs and RSUs [Member]
Stock Options, SARs and RSUs [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Aggregate number of shares excluded from computation of EPS
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
2018
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
2019
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
2020
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
2021
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
2022
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Thereafter
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total principal and interest payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Amounts representing interest
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Present value of net minimum lease payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Current portion
Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Noncurrent portion
Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
Allowance for doubtful accounts — Trade receivables (Continuing operations)
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Balance at beginning of period
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Amount
Impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-09
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Impact of ASU Adoption
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Impact of ASU Adoption
Additions to costs and expenses
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Cost and Expense
Acquisitions
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Business Acquired
VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments for Joint Venture Transactions
Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments for Joint Venture Transactions
Deductions or write-offs
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deduction
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Valuation Allowances And Reserves Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Valuation Allowances And Reserves Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Balance at end of period
Long lived Assets
Long Lived Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Other
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Estimated useful life
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Gross carrying amount
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Axis]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Retirement Plan Type [Domain]
Pension Plan
Pension Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Amount
Projected benefit obligation
Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation
Net asset (liability)
Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan
Net periodic pension cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit)
Service cost
Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost
Curtailment gain
Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailment
Contributions expected in next fiscal year
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year
Contributions by employer
Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table]
Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis]
Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis]
Deferred Tax Asset [Domain]
Deferred Tax Asset [Domain]
Other Deferred Tax Asset [Member]
Other Deferred Tax Asset [Member]
Other Deferred Tax Asset [Member]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]
Statutory income tax rate
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
Change in valuation allowances
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount
Amount on which future tax deductions can be claimed
Amount on Which Future Tax Deductions Can Be Claimed
Amount on Which Future Tax Deductions Can Be Claimed
Maximum percent of capital allowances claimed allowance
Maximum Percent of Capital Allowances Claimed Allowance
Maximum Percent of Capital Allowances Claimed Allowance
Deferred tax liability, temporary difference
Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries
Recorded liability for the Mandatory Repatriation Tax
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Liability
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Liability
Unrecognized tax benefits - favorable impact on effective income tax rate if ultimately recognized, net of valuation allowances
Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate
Reductions to our unrecognized tax benefits reasonably possible
Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible
Income tax penalties and interest expense
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense
Accrued interest and penalties on tax related items
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued
Segment Reporting
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Long-lived Assets
Long Lived Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
The entire disclosure for long-lived assets.
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]
Trade receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts
Contract assets
Contract with Customer, Asset, Net
Deferred revenue
Contract with Customer, Liability
Revenue recognized
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
Aggregate assets associated with incremental costs to obtain a contract and contract fulfillment costs
Capitalized Contract Cost, Net
Amortization related to contract costs
Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization
Unsatisfied performance obligations, description of timing
Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Timing
Share capital authorized, aggregate nominal amount
Authorized Share Capital, Aggregate Nominal Amount
Authorized Share Capital, Aggregate Nominal Amount
Minimum number of classes or series of stock which may be authorized
Minimum Number of Classes or Series of Stock Which May Be Authorized
Minimum Number of Classes or Series of Stock Which May Be Authorized
Number of votes allowed per class of stock (in votes)
Number of Votes Allowed Per Class of Stock
Number of Votes Allowed Per Class of Stock
Number of ordinary shares convertible to certain class of ordinary shares (in shares)
Number of Ordinary Shares Convertible to Certain Class of Ordinary Shares
Number of Ordinary Shares Convertible to Certain Class of Ordinary Shares
Schedule of outstanding share-based compensation awards
Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]
Summary of the changes in our share capital
Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block]
Details of share repurchases
Class of Treasury Stock [Table Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]