ALTICE USA, INC., 10-Q filed on 4/28/2021
Quarterly Report
v3.21.1
Document and Entity Information - shares
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Apr. 19, 2021
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]    
Title of 12(b) Security Class A Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share  
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes  
Entity File Number 001-38126  
Document Transition Report false  
Document Type 10-Q  
Entity Central Index Key 0001702780  
Entity Registrant Name Altice USA, Inc.  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2021  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY  
Amendment Flag false  
Entity Emerging Growth Company false  
Entity Shell Company false  
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2021  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   459,814,587
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes  
Entity Small Business false  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Tax Identification Number 38-3980194  
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE  
Entity Address, Address Line One 1 Court Square West  
Entity Address, City or Town Long Island City,  
Entity Address, State or Province NY  
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 11101  
City Area Code (516)  
Local Phone Number 803-2300  
Trading Symbol ATUS  
Security Exchange Name NYSE  
Document Quarterly Report true  
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 220,571 $ 278,422
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $22,395 and $25,198) 376,155 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 221,819 200,252
Amounts due from affiliates 3,795 4,262
Derivative contracts 8,252 50,785
Total current assets 830,856 976,566
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $6,639,771 and $6,431,843 5,843,572 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 234,358 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral   2,250,854
Derivative contracts 0 4,774
Other assets 92,137 87,429
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $4,574,426 and $4,409,312 2,616,017 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,068,017 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,160,566 8,160,566
Total assets 33,169,831 33,376,660
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 879,032 795,576
Interest payable 233,968 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 104,220 142,116
Amounts due to affiliates 12,698 8,538
Deferred revenue 153,032 109,798
Debt 1,258,055 1,245,713
Other current liabilities 550,263 544,302
Total current liabilities 3,191,268 3,098,103
Other liabilities 172,766 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,037,625 5,006,167
Liabilities under derivative contracts 472,402 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability 248,758 257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,431,481 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,554,300 34,554,036
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)
Redeemable equity 3,104 25,763
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding 0 0
Paid-in capital 0 0
Accumulated deficit (1,185,610) (985,641)
Total stockholders' equity before accumulated other comprehensive Income and non-controlling interest (1,180,930) (980,810)
Treasury stock, at cost (6,066,251 and 6,629,415 Class A common shares at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively) 163,860 163,866
Accumulated other comprehensive income 10,621 3,646
Total Altice USA stockholders' deficiency (1,334,169) (1,141,030)
Noncontrolling interests (53,404) (62,109)
Total stockholders' deficiency (1,387,573) (1,203,139)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficiency 33,169,831 33,376,660
Common Class A    
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Common stock 2,822 2,972
Common Class B    
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Common stock 1,858 1,859
Common Class C    
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Common stock 0 0
CSC Holdings    
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 220,214 277,938
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $22,395 and $25,198) 376,155 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 221,819 200,252
Amounts due from affiliates 3,795 4,262
Derivative contracts 8,252 50,785
Total current assets 830,499 976,082
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $6,639,771 and $6,431,843 5,843,572 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 234,358 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral 2,324,308 2,250,854
Derivative contracts 0 4,774
Other assets 92,137 87,429
Amortizable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $4,574,426 and $4,409,312 2,616,017 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,068,017 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,160,566 8,160,566
Total assets 33,169,474 33,376,176
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 879,032 795,576
Interest payable 233,968 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 104,220 142,116
Amounts due to affiliates 12,698 8,538
Deferred revenue 153,032 109,798
Debt 1,258,055 1,245,713
Other current liabilities 530,853 543,834
Total current liabilities 3,171,858 3,097,635
Other liabilities 172,766 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,065,438 5,033,980
Liabilities under derivative contracts 472,402 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability   257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,431,481 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,562,703 34,581,381
Redeemable equity 3,104 25,763
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Accumulated other comprehensive income 10,621 3,646
Noncontrolling interests (53,404) (62,109)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficiency $ 33,169,474 $ 33,376,176
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Assets [Abstract]    
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation $ 6,639,771 $ 6,431,843
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization $ 4,574,426 4,409,312
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts   $ 25,198
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) 100,000,000 100,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) 0 0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0 0
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired 6,066,251 6,629,415
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 461,977,407  
Common Class A    
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 4,000,000,000 4,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) 282,245,265 297,203,087
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 276,179,014 290,573,672
Common Class B    
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 185,798,393 185,895,903
Common Class C    
Stockholders' Deficiency:    
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 4,000,000,000 4,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) 0 0
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0 0
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($)
shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Income Statement [Abstract]    
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $3,406 and $3,488 respectively) (See Note 15) $ 2,478,821 $ 2,450,256
Operating expenses:    
Programming and other direct costs (including charges from affiliates of $2,228 and $2,189 respectively) (See Note 15) 851,864 864,514
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $3,179 and $3,941 respectively) (See Note 15) 580,433 582,309
Restructuring and other expense 3,209 7,294
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 434,857 547,569
Total operating expenses 1,870,363 2,001,686
Operating income 608,458 448,570
Other income (expense):    
Interest expense (316,339) (365,211)
Interest income 27 1,659
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net 73,453 (455,473)
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock (53,565) 439,861
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in the 2020 period in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below 75,653 (54,832)
Other income, net 2,859 923
Total other income (expense) (217,912) (433,073)
Income before income taxes 390,546 15,497
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (112,007) (17,035)
Net income (loss) 278,539 (1,538)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,403) 680
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders $ 274,136 $ (858)
Income (loss) per share:    
Basic income (loss) per share $ 0.58 $ 0
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) 469,233 621,414
Diluted income (loss) per share $ 0.58 $ 0
Diluted weighted average common shares (in thousands) 475,448 621,414
Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0 $ 0
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Income Statement [Abstract]    
Revenue from affiliates $ 3,406 $ 3,488
Programming and other direct costs from affiliates 2,228 2,189
Other operating expenses from affiliates $ 3,179 $ 3,941
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]    
Net income (loss) $ 278,539 $ (1,538)
Defined benefit pension plans:    
Unrecognized actuarial gain (loss)   (13,469)
Applicable income taxes   3,598
Unrecognized gain (loss) arising during period, net of income taxes 6,906 (9,871)
Settlement loss (gain) included in other expense, net   502
Applicable income taxes   (134)
Settlement loss (gain) included in other expense, net, net of income taxes (550) 368
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (424)
Applicable income taxes   0
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net 619 (424)
Other comprehensive income (loss) 6,975 (9,927)
Comprehensive income (loss) 285,514 (11,465)
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests   680
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders $ 281,111 $ (10,785)
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Total
Parent [Member]
Member's Equity (Deficiency)
Accumulated Deficit
Treasury Stock
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Noncontrolling Interests
Common Class A
Common Stock
Common Class B
Common Stock
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2019 $ 2,279,262 $ 2,269,964 $ 2,039,918   $ (163,904) $ (3,250) $ 9,298 $ 4,572 $ 1,862
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                  
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders (858)     $ (858)       (858) 0
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests 680           680    
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Plan Amendments, Net Of Tax 9,503 9,503       9,503      
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (424) (424)       (424)      
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition 27,370 27,370 27,370            
Redeemable equity vested 29,479 29,479 29,479            
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock 13,260 13,260 13,260            
Class A shares acquired through share repurchase program and retired (749,998) (749,998) (749,686)         (312)  
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues 2,507 2,507     11        
Other             4,302    
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2020 1,590,415 1,581,797 1,362,836   (163,893) (13,177) 8,618 4,261 1,862
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2020 (1,203,139) (1,141,030) 0 (985,641) (163,866) 3,646 (62,109) 2,972 1,859
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                  
Net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 274,136 274,136   274,136          
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,403)           (4,403)    
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Plan Amendments, Net Of Tax (6,356) (6,356)       6,356      
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net 619 619       619      
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition 27,964 27,964   27,964          
Redeemable equity vested 20,131 20,131   20,131          
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock 2,528 2,528   2,528          
Class A shares acquired through share repurchase program and retired (522,673) (522,673)   (522,521)       (152)  
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares               1 (1)
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues 2,044 2,044 2,495 2,037 6     1  
Other 58 (4,244) 0 (4,244)          
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2021 $ (1,387,573) $ (1,334,169) $ 0 $ (1,185,610) $ (163,860) $ 10,621 $ (53,404) $ 2,822 $ 1,858
v3.21.1
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities:    
Net income (loss) $ 278,539 $ (1,538)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:    
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 434,857 547,569
Loss (gain) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net (73,453) 455,473
Gain (Loss) on Price Risk Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments 53,565 (439,861)
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness 23,039 23,944
Share-based compensation expense 28,281 27,946
Deferred income taxes 29,165 30,225
Decrease in right-of-use assets 10,816 11,474
Provision for doubtful accounts 11,133 19,880
Other 1,074 1,849
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:    
Accounts receivable, trade 55,293 (4,458)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (26,321) (34,800)
Amounts due from and due to affiliates 4,627 3,894
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (29,696) (165,728)
Deferred revenue 38,501 (5,153)
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts (89,798) 122,849
Net cash provided by operating activities 749,622 593,565
Cash flows from investing activities:    
Capital expenditures (212,791) (299,082)
Other, net 2,143 1,339
Net cash used in investing activities (210,648) (297,743)
Cash flows from financing activities:    
Proceeds from long-term debt 150,000 0
Repayment of long-term debt (225,863) (18,183)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net 185,105 0
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net (185,105) 0
Principal payments on finance lease obligations (18,330) (5,700)
Purchase of shares of Altice USA Class A common stock, pursuant to a share repurchase program (503,645) (726,005)
Other (393) 2,915
Net cash used in financing activities (597,445) (752,803)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (58,471) (456,981)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 620 (424)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (57,851) (457,405)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 278,686 702,160
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 220,835 $ 244,755
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 220,571 $ 278,422
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $13,420 and $11,677) 376,155 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (including a prepayment to an affiliate of $19,563 in 2017) (See Note 14) 221,819 200,252
Amounts due from affiliates 3,795 4,262
Derivative contracts 8,252 50,785
Total current assets 830,856 976,566
Property, plant and equipment, net 5,843,572 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 234,358 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral   2,250,854
Derivative contracts 0 4,774
Other assets 92,137 87,429
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization 2,616,017 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,068,017 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,160,566 8,160,566
Total assets 33,169,831 33,376,660
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 879,032 795,576
Interest payable 233,968 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 104,220 142,116
Amounts due to affiliates 12,698 8,538
Deferred revenue 153,032 109,798
Debt 1,258,055 1,245,713
Other current liabilities 550,263 544,302
Total current liabilities 3,191,268 3,098,103
Other liabilities 172,766 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,037,625 5,006,167
Liabilities under derivative contracts 472,402 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability 248,758 257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,431,481 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,554,300 34,554,036
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)
Redeemable equity 3,104 25,763
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity [Abstract]    
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 10,621 3,646
Noncontrolling interests (53,404) (62,109)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficiency 33,169,831 33,376,660
Customer Relationships [Member]    
Current Assets:    
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization 2,433,901 2,573,856
Other Intangible Assets [Member]    
Current Assets:    
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization 18,853 20,366
CSC Holdings    
Current Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 220,214 277,938
Restricted cash 264 264
Accounts receivable, trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts of $13,420 and $11,677) 376,155 442,581
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (including a prepayment to an affiliate of $19,563 in 2017) (See Note 14) 221,819 200,252
Amounts due from affiliates 3,795 4,262
Derivative contracts 8,252 50,785
Total current assets 830,499 976,082
Property, plant and equipment, net 5,843,572 5,805,996
Right-of-use operating lease assets 234,358 241,342
Investment securities pledged as collateral 2,324,308 2,250,854
Derivative contracts 0 4,774
Other assets 92,137 87,429
Amortizable intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization 2,616,017 2,781,116
Indefinite-lived cable television franchises 13,068,017 13,068,017
Goodwill 8,160,566 8,160,566
Total assets 33,169,474 33,376,176
Current Liabilities:    
Accounts payable 879,032 795,576
Interest payable 233,968 252,060
Accrued employee related costs 104,220 142,116
Amounts due to affiliates 12,698 8,538
Deferred revenue 153,032 109,798
Debt 1,258,055 1,245,713
Other current liabilities 530,853 543,834
Total current liabilities 3,171,858 3,097,635
Other liabilities 172,766 192,563
Deferred tax liability 5,065,438 5,033,980
Liabilities under derivative contracts 472,402 523,150
Right-of-use operating lease liability   257,424
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,431,481 25,476,629
Total liabilities 34,562,703 34,581,381
Redeemable equity 3,104 25,763
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity [Abstract]    
Membership interest before accumulated comprehensive loss (1,353,550) (1,172,505)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 10,621 3,646
Membership equity before noncontrolling interest (1,342,929) (1,168,859)
Noncontrolling interests (53,404) (62,109)
Total Equity (Deficiency) (1,396,333) (1,230,968)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficiency $ 33,169,474 $ 33,376,176
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parentheticals) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts   $ 25,198
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation $ 6,639,771 6,431,843
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization 4,574,426 4,409,312
CSC Holdings    
Accounts receivable, trade allowance for doubtful accounts 22,395 25,198
Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation 6,639,771 6,431,843
Amortizable intangible assets, accumulated amortization $ 4,574,426 $ 4,409,312
Members' Equity 100 100
Common Unit, Outstanding 100 100
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $3,406 and $3,488 respectively) (See Note 15) $ 2,478,821 $ 2,450,256
Operating expenses:    
Programming and other direct costs (including charges from affiliates of $2,228 and $2,189 respectively) (See Note 15) 851,864 864,514
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $3,179 and $3,941 respectively) (See Note 15) 580,433 582,309
Restructuring and other expense 3,209 7,294
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 434,857 547,569
Total operating expenses 1,870,363 2,001,686
Operating income 608,458 448,570
Other income (expense):    
Interest expense (316,339) (365,211)
Interest income 27 1,659
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net 73,453 (455,473)
Loss on equity derivative contracts, net (53,565) 439,861
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in the 2020 period in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below 75,653 (54,832)
Other income, net 2,859 923
Total other income (expense) (217,912) (433,073)
Income before income taxes 390,546 15,497
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (112,007) (17,035)
Net income 278,539 (1,538)
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,403) 680
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member 274,136 (858)
CSC Holdings    
Revenue (including revenue from affiliates of $3,406 and $3,488 respectively) (See Note 15) 2,478,821 2,450,256
Operating expenses:    
Programming and other direct costs (including charges from affiliates of $2,228 and $2,189 respectively) (See Note 15) 851,864 864,514
Other operating expenses (including charges from affiliates of $3,179 and $3,941 respectively) (See Note 15) 580,433 582,309
Restructuring and other expense 3,209 7,294
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 434,857 547,569
Total operating expenses 1,870,363 2,001,686
Operating income 608,458 448,570
Other income (expense):    
Interest expense (316,339) (365,211)
Interest income 27 1,659
Gain (loss) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net 73,453 (455,819)
Loss on equity derivative contracts, net (53,565) 439,861
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in the 2020 period in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below 75,653 (54,832)
Other income, net 2,859 923
Total other income (expense) (217,912) (433,419)
Income before income taxes 390,546 15,151
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) (112,007) (5,029)
Net income 278,539 10,122
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,403) 680
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member $ 274,136 $ 10,802
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Income Statement [Abstract]    
Revenue from affiliates $ 3,406 $ 3,488
Programming and other direct costs from affiliates 2,228 2,189
Related Party Transaction, Other Operating Expense $ 3,179 $ 3,941
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Net income $ 278,539 $ (1,538)
Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans:    
Unrecognized actuarial gain (loss)   (13,469)
Applicable income taxes   3,598
Unrecognized gain (loss) arising during period, net of income taxes 6,906 (9,871)
Settlement loss (gain) included in other expense, net   502
Applicable income taxes   (134)
Settlement loss (gain) included in other expense, net, net of income taxes (550) 368
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (424)
Applicable income taxes   0
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net 619 (424)
Other comprehensive income (loss) 6,975 (9,927)
Comprehensive income (loss) 285,514 (11,465)
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests   680
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders 281,111 (10,785)
CSC Holdings    
Net income 278,539 10,122
Defined benefit pension and postretirement plans:    
Unrecognized actuarial gain (loss) 9,396 (13,469)
Applicable income taxes (2,490) 3,598
Unrecognized gain (loss) arising during period, net of income taxes 6,906 (9,871)
Settlement loss (gain) included in other expense, net (748) 502
Applicable income taxes 198 (134)
Settlement loss (gain) included in other expense, net, net of income taxes (550) 368
Foreign currency translation adjustment 619 (424)
Applicable income taxes 0  
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net 619 (424)
Other comprehensive income (loss) 6,975 (9,927)
Comprehensive income (loss) 285,514 195
Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests (4,403) 680
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Altice USA, Inc. stockholders $ 281,111 $ 875
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF MEMBER'S EQUITY - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Total
CSC Holdings
Total Member's Equity (Deficiency)
Total Member's Equity (Deficiency)
CSC Holdings
Noncontrolling Interests
Noncontrolling Interests
CSC Holdings
Member's Equity (Deficiency)
Member's Equity (Deficiency)
CSC Holdings
Accumulated Deficit
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
CSC Holdings
Accumulated deficit                 $ 390,766    
Member's Equity (Deficiency)               $ 2,047,397      
Accumulated other comprehensive income                     $ (3,250)
Membership equity before noncontrolling interest       $ 2,044,147              
Noncontrolling interests   $ 9,298                  
Total Equity (Deficiency)   2,053,445                  
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member $ (858) 10,802   10,802       10,802 (858)    
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest (680) (680)     $ (680) $ (680)          
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Plan Amendments, Net Of Tax (9,503) (9,503) $ (9,503) (9,503)           $ (9,503) (9,503)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net (424) (424) (424) (424)           (424) (424)
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition 27,370 27,370 27,370 27,370     $ 27,370 27,370      
Redeemable equity vested 29,479 29,479 29,479 29,479     29,479 29,479      
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock (13,260) (13,260) (13,260) (13,260)     $ (13,260) (13,260)      
Cash distributions to parent   720,350   720,350       720,350      
Intercompany settlement   (150,602)   (150,602)       (150,602)      
Distributions to parent 150,602                    
Accumulated deficit                 389,908    
Member's Equity (Deficiency)               1,257,356      
Accumulated other comprehensive income                     (13,177)
Membership equity before noncontrolling interest       1,244,179              
Noncontrolling interests   8,618       8,618          
Total Equity (Deficiency)   1,252,797                  
Accumulated deficit (985,641)                    
Member's Equity (Deficiency)               (1,172,505)      
Accumulated other comprehensive income 3,646 3,646                 3,646
Membership equity before noncontrolling interest   (1,168,859)   (1,168,859)              
Noncontrolling interests (62,109) (62,109)       (62,109)          
Total Equity (Deficiency)   (1,230,968)                  
Net income attributable to CSC Holdings, LLC sole member 274,136 274,136 274,136 274,136       274,136 274,136    
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest 4,403 4,403     $ 4,403 4,403          
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Plan Amendments, Net Of Tax 6,356 6,356 6,356 6,356           (6,356) 6,356
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net 619 619 619 619           $ 619 619
APIC, Share-based Payment Arrangement, Increase for Cost Recognition 27,964 27,964 27,964 27,964       27,964 27,964    
Redeemable equity vested 20,131 20,131 20,131 20,131       20,131 20,131    
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock (2,528) (2,528) $ (2,528) (2,528)       (2,528) $ (2,528)    
Cash distributions to parent   501,000   501,000       501,000      
Intercompany settlement   745                  
Distributions to parent 745                    
Stockholders' Equity, Other   (502)   (4,804)   4,302   (4,804)      
Accumulated deficit (1,185,610)                    
Member's Equity (Deficiency)               $ (1,353,550)      
Accumulated other comprehensive income 10,621 10,621                 $ 10,621
Membership equity before noncontrolling interest   (1,342,929)   $ (1,342,929)              
Noncontrolling interests $ (53,404) (53,404)       $ (53,404)          
Total Equity (Deficiency)   $ (1,396,333)                  
v3.21.1
CSC HOLDINGS - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities:    
Net income $ 278,539 $ (1,538)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:    
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 434,857 547,569
Loss (gain) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net (73,453) 455,473
Loss (gain) on derivative contracts, net 53,565 (439,861)
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness 23,039 23,944
Share-based compensation expense 28,281 27,946
Deferred income taxes 29,165 30,225
Decrease in right-of-use assets 10,816 11,474
Provision for doubtful accounts 11,133 19,880
Other 1,074 1,849
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:    
Accounts receivable, trade 55,293 (4,458)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (26,321) (34,800)
Amounts due from and due to affiliates 4,627 3,894
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (29,696) (165,728)
Deferred revenue 38,501 (5,153)
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts (89,798) 122,849
Net cash provided by operating activities 749,622 593,565
Cash flows from investing activities:    
Capital expenditures (212,791) (299,082)
Other, net 2,143 1,339
Net cash used in investing activities (210,648) (297,743)
Cash flows from financing activities:    
Proceeds from long-term debt 150,000 0
Repayment of long-term debt (225,863) (18,183)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net 185,105 0
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net (185,105) 0
Principal payments on finance lease obligations (18,330) (5,700)
Other (393) 2,915
Net cash used in financing activities (597,445) (752,803)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (58,471) (456,981)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 620 (424)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (57,851) (457,405)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 278,686 702,160
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period 220,835 244,755
CSC Holdings    
Cash flows from operating activities:    
Net income 278,539 10,122
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:    
Depreciation and amortization (including impairments) 434,857 547,569
Loss (gain) on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net (73,453) 455,819
Loss (gain) on derivative contracts, net 53,565 (439,861)
Amortization of deferred financing costs and discounts (premiums) on indebtedness 23,039 23,944
Share-based compensation expense 28,281 27,946
Deferred income taxes 29,165 172,835
Decrease in right-of-use assets 10,816 11,474
Provision for doubtful accounts 11,133 19,880
Other 1,074 1,849
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and dispositions:    
Accounts receivable, trade 55,293 (4,458)
Prepaid expenses and other assets (26,321) (34,800)
Amounts due from and due to affiliates 3,882 (147,183)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (29,611) (165,723)
Deferred revenue 38,501 (5,153)
Liabilities related to interest rate swap contracts (89,798) 122,849
Net cash provided by operating activities 748,962 597,109
Cash flows from investing activities:    
Capital expenditures (212,791) (299,082)
Other, net 2,143 (2,669)
Net cash used in investing activities (210,648) (301,751)
Cash flows from financing activities:    
Proceeds from long-term debt 150,000 0
Repayment of long-term debt (225,863) (18,183)
Proceeds from collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net 185,105 0
Repayment of collateralized indebtedness and related derivative contracts, net (185,105) 0
Distributions to parent 501,000 720,350
Principal payments on finance lease obligations (18,330) (5,700)
Other 1,465 4,947
Net cash used in financing activities (596,658) (749,180)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (58,344) (453,822)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 620 (424)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (57,724) (454,246)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 278,202 698,003
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 220,478 $ 243,757
v3.21.1
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS
The Company and Related Matters
Altice USA, Inc. ("Altice USA") was incorporated in Delaware on September 14, 2015. Altice USA is majority-owned by Patrick Drahi through Next Alt. S.a.r.l. ("Next Alt").
Altice USA, through CSC Holdings, LLC (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cablevision Systems Corporation) and its consolidated subsidiaries ("CSC Holdings," and collectively with Altice USA, the "Company"), principally provides broadband communications and video services in the United States. It markets its residential services primarily under two brands: Optimum, in the New York metropolitan area, and Suddenlink, principally in markets in the south-central United States. It operates enterprise services under the brands Lightpath and Altice Business. It delivers broadband, video, telephony services, proprietary content and advertising services to residential and business customers. In September 2019, the Company launched Altice Mobile, a full service voice and data offering, to consumers across its footprint. As these brands are managed on a consolidated basis, the Company classifies its operations in one segment.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements ("consolidated financial statements") of Altice USA include the accounts of Altice USA and its majority-owned subsidiaries and the accompanying consolidated financial statements of CSC Holdings include the accounts of CSC Holdings and its majority-owned subsidiaries. Altice USA is a holding company and has no business operations independent of its CSC Holdings subsidiary, whose operating results and financial position are consolidated into Altice USA. The consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations of Altice USA are essentially identical to the consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations of CSC Holdings, with the following exceptions: Altice USA has additional cash and deferred taxes on its consolidated balance sheet. In addition, CSC Holdings and its subsidiaries have certain intercompany receivables from and payables to Altice USA. Differences between Altice USA's results of operations and those of CSC Holdings for the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily include gain on investments and sale of affiliate interests, net and income tax expense recorded by Altice USA.
The combined notes to the consolidated financial statements relate to the Company, which, except as noted, are essentially identical for Altice USA and CSC Holdings. All significant intercompany transactions and balances between Altice USA or CSC Holdings and their respective consolidated subsidiaries are eliminated in both sets of consolidated financial statements. Intercompany transactions between Altice USA and CSC Holdings are not eliminated in the CSC Holdings consolidated financial statements, but are eliminated in the Altice USA consolidated financial statements.
The financial statements of CSC Holdings are included herein as supplemental information as CSC Holdings is not an SEC registrant.
v3.21.1
BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information.  Accordingly, these financial statements do not include all the information and notes required for complete annual financial statements.
The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020.
The financial statements presented in this report are unaudited; however, in the opinion of management, such financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the periods presented.
The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that might be expected for future interim periods or for the full year ending December 31, 2021.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates. See Note 12 for a discussion of fair value estimates.
v3.21.1
COMMON STOCK
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Common stock COMMON STOCK
Share Repurchase Plan
In June 2018, the Board of Directors of Altice USA authorized a share repurchase program of $2,000,000, and on July 30, 2019, the Board of Directors authorized a new incremental three-year share repurchase program of $5,000,000 that took effect following the completion in August 2019 of the $2,000,000 repurchase program. In November 2020, the Board of Directors authorized an additional incremental $2,000,000 of share repurchases bringing the total amount of cumulative share repurchases authorized to $9,000,000. Under these repurchase programs, shares of Altice USA Class A common stock may be purchased from time to time in the open market and may include trading plans entered into with one or more brokerage firms in accordance with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Size and timing of these purchases will be determined based on market conditions and other factors.  
For the three months ended March 31, 2021, Altice USA repurchased an aggregate of 15,179,697 shares for a total purchase price of approximately $522,673. From inception through March 31, 2021, Altice USA repurchased an aggregate of 277,093,742 shares for a total purchase price of approximately $7,526,443. These acquired shares were retired and the cost of these shares was recorded in stockholders' deficiency in the consolidated balance sheet of Altice USA.  As of March 31, 2021, Altice USA had approximately $1,473,557 of availability remaining under the incremental share repurchase program and had 461,977,407 combined Class A and Class B shares outstanding.
Common Stock of Altice USA
The following table provides details of Altice USA's shares of common stock outstanding:
 Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 Class A
Common Stock		Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2020290,573,672 185,895,903 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock97,510 (97,510)
Option exercises104,365 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's share repurchase plan (discussed above)(15,179,697)— 
Treasury shares reissued583,164 — 
Balance at March 31, 2021276,179,014 185,798,393 
v3.21.1
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Revenue from Contract with Customer REVENUE
The following table presents the composition of revenue:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Broadband$970,571 $885,529 
Video905,834 947,061 
Telephony106,981 125,030 
Residential revenue1,983,386 1,957,620 
Business services and wholesale revenue367,216 364,530 
News and advertising105,070 105,540 
Mobile19,235 18,356 
Other3,914 4,210 
Total revenue$2,478,821 $2,450,256 
The Company is assessed non-income related taxes by governmental authorities, including franchising authorities (generally under multi-year agreements), and collects such taxes from its customers.  In instances where the tax is being assessed directly on the Company, amounts paid to the governmental authorities are recorded as programming and other direct costs and amounts received from the customers are recorded as revenue. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, and 2020, the amount of franchise fees and certain other taxes and fees included as a component of revenue aggregated $66,056, and $64,910, respectively.
Customer Contract Costs
Deferred enterprise commission costs are included in other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheets and totaled $18,864 and $19,959 as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
A significant portion of our revenue is derived from residential and SMB customer contracts which are month-to month. As such, the amount of revenue related to unsatisfied performance obligations is not necessarily indicative of the future revenue to be recognized from our existing customer base. Contracts with enterprise customers generally range from three years to five years, and services may only be terminated in accordance with the contractual terms.
v3.21.1
Earnings Per Share
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Earnings Per Share NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE
Basic net income (loss) per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Altice USA stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted income per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders reflects the dilutive effects of stock options and restricted stock. For such awards that are performance based, the diluted effect is reflected upon the achievement of the performance criteria. Diluted net loss per common share attributable to Altice USA stockholders excludes the effects of common stock equivalents as they are anti-dilutive.
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
(in thousands)
Basic weighted average shares outstanding469,233 621,414 
Effect of dilution:
Stock options6,170 — 
Restricted stock45 — 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding475,448 621,414 
Weighted average shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding:
Anti-dilutive shares495 22,525 
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been achieved.
8,748 8,981 
Net income (loss) per membership unit for CSC Holdings is not presented since CSC Holdings is a limited liability company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Altice USA.
v3.21.1
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2020
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]  
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Altice USA and CSC Holdings:
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
$266,995 $219,889 
Unsettled purchases of shares of Altice USA, Inc. Class A common stock, pursuant to a share repurchase program
18,942 23,993 
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for finance lease obligations
38,348 27,674 
CSC Holdings:
Distributions to parent
745 150,602 

Supplemental Data:
Altice USA:
Cash interest paid
310,878 474,268 
Income taxes paid, net
9,727 1,195 
CSC Holdings:
Cash interest paid
310,878 474,268 
Income taxes paid, net
9,727 1,195 
v3.21.1
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE
The Company's restructuring and other expense is comprised of the following:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Contractual payments for terminated employees$1,856 $3,121 
Facility realignment costs324 1,979 
Impairment of right-of-use operating lease assets405 1,705 
Transaction costs related to certain transactions not related to the Company's operations624 489 
$3,209 $7,294 
As of March 31, 2021, the outstanding amounts due to terminated employees of $13,185 and the outstanding amounts related to facility realignment costs of $5,503 are reflected in other current and other long-term liabilities in the Company's consolidated balance sheet.
v3.21.1
LEASES
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]  
OPERATING LEASES LEASES
The Company's operating leases are comprised primarily of facility leases and finance leases are comprised primarily of vehicle and equipment leases.
Balance sheet information related to our leases is presented below:
Balance Sheet locationMarch 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Operating leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsRight-of-use operating lease assets$234,358 $241,342 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentOther current liabilities38,373 38,296 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termRight-of-use operating lease liability248,758 257,424 
Finance leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsProperty, plant and equipment195,354 170,155 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentCurrent portion of long-term debt76,123 63,454 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termLong-term debt103,532 96,183 
The following provides details of the Company's lease expense:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Operating lease expense, net$14,307 $15,004 

Finance lease expense:
Amortization of assets11,574 4,460
Interest on lease liabilities2,101 1,027
Total finance lease expense13,675 5,487
$27,982 $20,491 
Other information related to leases is presented below:
As of March 31,
20212020
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for operating lease obligations$2,865 $12,875 
Cash Paid For Amounts Included In Measurement of Liabilities:
Operating cash flows related to finance leases2,101 1,027 
Operating cash flows related to operating leases15,457 16,659 
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term:
Operating leases8.8 years9.3 years
Finance leases2.4 years3.1 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate:
Operating leases5.60 %5.90 %
Finance leases5.16 %5.50 %
The minimum future annual payments under non-cancellable leases during the next five years and thereafter, at rates now in force, are as follows:
Finance leasesOperating leases
2021 (excluding the three months ended March 31, 2021)$62,394 $30,274 
202278,946 52,862 
202343,839 45,139 
20245,231 41,448 
2025292 33,458 
Thereafter— 167,700 
Total future minimum lease payments, undiscounted190,702 370,881 
Less: Imputed interest(11,047)(83,750)
Present value of future minimum lease payments$179,655 $287,131 
v3.21.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
INTANGIBLE ASSETS INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 
As of March 31, 2021As of December 31, 2020
Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountEstimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships
$6,052,598 $(3,618,697)$2,433,901 $6,052,598 $(3,478,742)$2,573,856 3 to 18 years
Trade names
1,081,083 (917,820)163,263 1,081,083 (894,189)186,894 2 to 5 years
Other amortizable intangibles
56,762 (37,909)18,853 56,747 (36,381)20,366 1 to 15 years
$7,190,443 $(4,574,426)$2,616,017 $7,190,428 $(4,409,312)$2,781,116 
Amortization expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 aggregated $165,114 and $201,099, respectively.
The carrying amount of indefinite-lived cable television franchises as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 was $13,068,017. The carrying amount of goodwill as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020 was $8,160,566.
v3.21.1
DEBT
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
DEBT DEBT
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding debt:
Interest RateMarch 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Date IssuedMaturity DatePrincipal AmountCarrying Amount (a)Principal AmountCarrying Amount (a)
CSC Holdings Senior Notes:
November 15, 2011November 15, 20216.750 %$1,000,000 $992,691 $1,000,000 $989,917 
September 27, 2012September 15, 20225.875 %649,024 621,617 649,024 617,333 
May 23, 2014June 1, 20245.250 %750,000 700,419 750,000 697,041 
October 18, 2018April 1, 20287.500 %4,118 4,112 4,118 4,112 
November 27, 2018April 1, 20287.500 %1,045,882 1,044,462 1,045,882 1,044,424 
July 10 and October 7, 2019January 15, 20305.750 %2,250,000 2,285,317 2,250,000 2,286,097 
June 16, 2020December 1, 20304.625 %2,325,000 2,369,628 2,325,000 2,370,502 
8,024,024  8,018,246 8,024,024 8,009,426 
CSC Holdings Senior Guaranteed Notes:
September 23, 2016April 15, 20275.500 %1,310,000 1,306,088 1,310,000 1,305,955 
January 29, 2018February 1, 20285.375 %1,000,000 993,677 1,000,000 993,490 
November 27, 2018May 15, 20265.500 %1,498,806 1,488,086 1,498,806 1,487,644 
January 24, 2019February 1, 20296.500 %1,750,000 1,747,309 1,750,000 1,747,245 
June 16, 2020December 1, 20304.125 %1,100,000 1,095,377 1,100,000 1,095,283 
August 17, 2020February 15, 20313.375 %1,000,000 996,760 1,000,000 996,692 
7,658,806 7,627,297 7,658,806 7,626,309 
CSC Holdings Restricted Group Credit Facility:
Revolving Credit Facility(c)2.358 %(b)575,000 566,720 625,000 616,027 
Term Loan BJuly 17, 20252.356 %2,887,500 2,877,145 2,895,000 2,884,065 
Incremental Term Loan B-3January 15, 20262.356 %1,249,500 1,245,315 1,252,688 1,248,293 
Incremental Term Loan B-5April 15, 20272.606 %2,970,000 2,950,038 2,977,500 2,956,807 
7,682,000 7,639,218 7,750,188 7,705,192 
Lightpath Senior Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20285.625 %415,000 406,400 415,000 406,176 
Lightpath Senior Secured Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20273.875 %450,000 440,791 450,000 440,487 
Lightpath Term LoanNovember 30, 20273.750 %598,500 581,879 600,000 582,808 
Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility(d)— — — — 
1,463,500 1,429,070 1,465,000 1,429,471 
Collateralized indebtedness (see Note 11)1,759,017 1,677,985 1,699,566 1,617,506 
Finance lease obligations (see Note 8)179,655 179,655 159,637 159,637 
Notes payable and supply chain financing (e)118,065 118,065 183,690 174,801 
26,885,067 26,689,536 26,940,911 26,722,342 
Less: current portion of credit facility debt(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)
Less: current portion of senior notes(1,000,000)(992,691)(1,000,000)(989,917)
Less: current portion of finance lease obligations(76,123)(76,123)(63,454)(63,454)
Less: current portion of notes payable and supply chain financing(110,491)(110,491)(113,592)(113,592)
(1,265,364)(1,258,055)(1,255,796)(1,245,713)
Long-term debt$25,619,703 $25,431,481 $25,685,115 $25,476,629 
(a)The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums and with respect to certain notes, a fair value adjustment resulting from the acquisitions of Cequel Corporation and Cablevision Systems Corporation.
(b)At March 31, 2021, $137,875 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,762,125 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)The revolving credit facility of an aggregate principal amount of $2,475,000 matures in January 2024 and is priced at LIBOR plus 2.25%. In March 2021, a lender under the revolving credit facility extended the maturity date and reduced the interest rate on its aggregate principal amount of $200,000 which had an original maturity date of November 2021 and was priced at LIBOR plus 3.25%.
(d)There were no borrowings outstanding under the Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility which provides for commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $100,000. Borrowings bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBOR rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum.
(e)Includes $99,941 related to supply chain financing agreements that are required to be repaid within one year from the date of the respective agreement. The decrease in the principal amount at March 31, 2021 includes a $59,451 reclassification to collateralized indebtedness in connection with the maturity of a monetization contract related to the synthetic monetization closeout transaction in November 2019.
For financing purposes, the Company has two debt silos: CSC Holdings and Lightpath. The CSC Holdings silo is structured as a restricted group (the "Restricted Group") and an unrestricted group, which includes certain designated subsidiaries and investments (the "Unrestricted Group"). The Restricted Group is comprised of CSC Holdings and substantially all of its wholly-owned operating subsidiaries excluding Cablevision Lightpath LLC ("Lightpath"), a 50.01% owned subsidiary of the Company, which became an unrestricted subsidiary in September 2020. These Restricted Group subsidiaries are subject to the covenants and restrictions of the credit facility and indentures governing the notes issued by CSC Holdings. The Lightpath silo includes all of its operating subsidiaries which are subject to the covenants and restrictions of the credit facility and indentures governing the notes issued by Lightpath.
Both CSC Holdings and Lightpath's credit facilities agreements contains certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default (including, among others, an event of default upon a change of control). If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the credit facilities will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the credit facilities and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor.
As of March 31, 2021, CSC Holdings and Cablevision Lightpath were in compliance with applicable financial covenants under their respective credit facilities and with applicable financial covenants under each respective indenture by which the senior guaranteed notes, senior secured notes and senior notes were issued.
Summary of Debt Maturities
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of March 31, 2021, including notes payable and collateralized indebtedness (see Note 11), but excluding finance lease obligations (see Note 8), are as follows:
2021$1,166,479 
2022734,667 
20231,841,383 
20241,403,889 
20252,823,750 
Thereafter18,735,244 
v3.21.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS
Prepaid Forward Contracts
The Company has entered into various transactions to limit the exposure against equity price risk on its shares of Comcast Corporation ("Comcast") common stock.  The Company has monetized all of its stock holdings in Comcast
through the execution of prepaid forward contracts, collateralized by an equivalent amount of the respective underlying stock.  At maturity, the contracts provide for the option to deliver cash or shares of Comcast stock with a value determined by reference to the applicable stock price at maturity.  These contracts, at maturity, are expected to offset declines in the fair value of these securities below the hedge price per share while allowing the Company to retain upside appreciation from the hedge price per share to the relevant cap price.  
The Company received cash proceeds upon execution of the prepaid forward contracts discussed above which has been reflected as collateralized indebtedness in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.  In addition, the Company separately accounts for the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts.  These equity derivatives have not been designated as hedges for accounting purposes.  Therefore, the net fair values of the equity derivatives have been reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as an asset or liability and the net increases or decreases in the fair value of the equity derivative component of the prepaid forward contracts are included in gain (loss) on derivative contracts in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations.
All of the Company's monetization transactions are obligations of its wholly-owned subsidiaries that are not part of the Restricted Group; however, CSC Holdings has provided guarantees of the subsidiaries' ongoing contract payment expense obligations and potential payments that could be due as a result of an early termination event (as defined in the agreements).  If any one of these contracts was terminated prior to its scheduled maturity date, the Company would be obligated to repay the fair value of the collateralized indebtedness less the sum of the fair values of the underlying stock and equity collar, calculated at the termination date.  As of March 31, 2021, the Company did not have an early termination shortfall relating to any of these contracts.
The Company monitors the financial institutions that are counterparties to its equity derivative contracts.  All of the counterparties to such transactions carry investment grade credit ratings as of March 31, 2021.
In January 2021, the Company settled a collateralized debt and an equity derivative contract aggregating $185,102 upon maturity related to 5,337,750 shares of Comcast common stock held by us, with proceeds of $185,102 received in the current period pursuant to the synthetic monetization closeout transaction in November 2019. In connection with this transaction the Company recorded (i) a decrease in notes payable of $59,451 and (ii) an increase in collateralized debt of $59,451.
Interest Rate Swap Contracts
To manage interest rate risk, we have from time to time entered into interest rate swap contracts to adjust the proportion of total debt that is subject to variable and fixed interest rates. Such contracts effectively fix the borrowing rates on floating rate debt to provide an economic hedge against the risk of rising rates and/or effectively convert fixed rate borrowings to variable rates to permit the Company to realize lower interest expense in a declining interest rate environment. We monitor the financial institutions that are counterparties to our interest rate swap contracts and we only enter into interest rate swap contracts with financial institutions that are rated investment grade. All such contracts are carried at their fair market values on our consolidated balance sheet, with changes in fair value reflected in the consolidated statement of operations. As of March 31, 2021, the Company did not hold and has not issued derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging InstrumentsBalance Sheet LocationFair Value at
March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Asset Derivatives:
Interest rate swap contracts
Derivative contracts, short-term$8,252 $5,132 
Prepaid forward contracts
Derivative contracts, short-term— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contracts
Derivative contracts, long-term— 4,774 
8,252 55,559 
Liability Derivatives:
Prepaid forward contracts
Other current liabilities— (45,653)
Interest rate swap contracts
Other current liabilities(12,861)— 
Prepaid forward contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(301,418)(247,853)
Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(170,984)(275,297)
 $(485,263)$(568,803)
The following table presents certain consolidated statement of operations data related to our derivative contracts and the underlying common stock:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock$(53,565)$439,861 
Change in the fair value of Comcast common stock included in gain (loss) on investments
73,453 (454,896)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in the 2020 period in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below75,653 (54,832)
In March 2020, the Company terminated two swap agreements whereby the Company was paying a floating rate of interest and receiving a fixed rate of interest on an aggregate notional value of $1,500,000. These contracts were due to mature in May 2026. In connection with the early termination, the Company received cash of $74,835 which has been recorded in loss on interest swap contracts, net in our consolidated statement of operations and presented in operating activities in our consolidated statement of cash flows.
In addition, in March 2020, the Company executed amendments to two interest swap contracts that reduced the fixed rate of interest that the Company was paying on an aggregate notional value of $1,000,000 and extended the maturity date of the contracts to January 15, 2025 from January 15, 2022.
The following is a summary of interest rate swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2021:
Trade DateMaturity DateNotional AmountCompany PaysCompany Receives
December 2018January 2025$500,000 Fixed rate of 1.53%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018January 2022500,000 Fixed rate of 2.733%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018January 2025500,000 Fixed rate of 1.625%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 Fixed rate of 2.9155%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 Fixed rate of 2.9025%Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2025500,000 Fixed rate of 1.458%Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2022500,000 Three-month LIBORFixed rate of 2.733%
April 2020April 20212,850,000 Six-month LIBOR minus 0.5185%One-month LIBOR
v3.21.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable.  Observable inputs reflect assumptions market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability based on market data obtained from independent sources while unobservable inputs reflect a reporting entity's pricing based upon their own market assumptions.  The fair value hierarchy consists of the following three levels:
•Level I - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
•Level II - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
•Level III - Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable.
The following table presents the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and their classification under the fair value hierarchy:
Fair Value
Hierarchy		March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Assets:
Money market funds
Level I$150,965 $50,236 
Investment securities pledged as collateralLevel I2,324,308 2,250,854 
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II8,252 9,906 
Liabilities:
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II(301,418)293,506 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II(183,845)275,297 
The Company's money market funds which are classified as cash equivalents and investment securities pledged as collateral are classified within Level I of the fair value hierarchy because they are valued using quoted market prices.
The Company's derivative contracts and liabilities under derivative contracts on the Company's consolidated balance sheets are valued using market-based inputs to valuation models.  These valuation models require a variety of inputs, including contractual terms, market prices, yield curves, and measures of volatility.  When appropriate, valuations are adjusted for various factors such as liquidity, bid/offer spreads and credit risk considerations.  Such adjustments are generally based on available market evidence. Since model inputs can generally be verified and do not involve significant management judgment, the Company has concluded that these instruments should be classified within Level II of the fair value hierarchy.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate:
Credit Facility Debt, Collateralized Indebtedness, Senior Notes, Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, Notes Payable, and Supply Chain Financing
The fair values of each of the Company's debt instruments are based on quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for instruments of the same remaining maturities. The fair value of notes payable is based primarily on the present value of the remaining payments discounted at the borrowing cost. The carrying value of outstanding amounts related to supply chain financing agreements approximates the fair value due to their short-term maturity (less than one year).
The carrying values, estimated fair values, and classification under the fair value hierarchy of the Company's financial instruments, excluding those that are carried at fair value in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, are summarized below:
March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Fair Value
Hierarchy		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value
Credit facility debtLevel II$8,221,097 $8,280,500 $8,288,000 $8,350,188 
Collateralized indebtednessLevel II1,677,985 1,753,986 1,617,506 1,692,724 
Senior guaranteed notes and senior secured notesLevel II8,068,088 8,363,231 8,066,796 8,567,858 
Senior notesLevel II8,424,646 8,734,561 8,415,602 9,024,990 
Notes payable and supply chain financingLevel II118,065 118,183 174,801 175,251 
$26,509,881 $27,250,461 $26,562,705 $27,811,011 
(a)Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
The fair value estimates related to the Company's debt instruments presented above are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instrument.  These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision.  Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
v3.21.1
INCOME TAXES
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
INCOME TAXES INCOME TAXES
In general, the Company is required to use an estimated annual effective tax rate ("AETR") to measure the income tax expense or benefit recognized on a year to date basis in an interim period. In addition, certain items included in income tax expense as well as the tax impact of certain items included in pretax income must be treated as discrete items. The income tax expense or benefit associated with these discrete items is fully recognized in the interim period in which the items occur.
Altice USA
For the three months ended March 31, 2021, Altice USA recorded a tax expense of $112,007 on pre-tax income of $390,546, resulting in an effective tax rate that was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate. The higher tax rate was due to the impact of certain non-deductible expenses and state tax expense.
For the three months ended March 31, 2020, Altice USA recorded a tax expense of $17,035 on pre-tax income of $15,497, resulting in an effective tax rate that was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate. The higher tax rate was due to the impact of certain non-deductible expenses and certain state tax expense adjustments, partially offset by a benefit resulting from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (“CARES Act”) enacted in March 2020.
CSC Holdings
For the three months ended March 31, 2021, CSC Holdings recorded a tax expense of $112,007 on pre-tax income of $390,546, resulting in an effective tax rate that was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate. The higher tax rate was due to the impact of certain non-deductible expenses and state tax expense.
For the three months ended March 31, 2020, CSC Holdings recorded a tax expense of $5,029 on pre-tax income of $15,151, resulting in an effective tax rate that was higher than the U.S. statutory tax rate. The higher tax rate was due to the impact of certain non-deductible expenses and certain state tax expense adjustments, partially offset by a benefit resulting from the CARES Act.
v3.21.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The following table presents share-based compensation expense recognized by the Company and unrecognized compensation costs:
Share-Based CompensationUnrecognized Compensation Costs
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020As of March 31, 2021
Carry Unit Plan$759 $3,120 $44 
Awards issued pursuant to LTIP:
Stock Option Awards24,223 20,349 123,543 
Performance Stock Units2,982 3,901 60,675 
Restricted Awards317 576 549 
$28,281 $27,946 $184,811 
Carry Unit Plan
The following table summarizes activity relating to the Company's Carry Unit Plan:
Number of Time
Vesting Awards		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 20206,875,000 $3.41 
Vested(5,375,000)3.80 
Balance, March 31, 20211,500,000 $1.99 
The weighted average fair value per unit was $2.10 and $3.89, as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
Stock Option Awards
The following table summarizes activity related to stock options granted to Company employees:
 Shares Under OptionWeighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (a)
Balance at December 31, 202037,062,146 $25.52 8.69$457,608 
Granted409,478 34.78 
Exercised(104,365)17.79 
Forfeited(360,778)26.10 
Balance at March 31, 202137,006,481 25.64 8.46256,796 
Options exercisable at March 31, 20213,141,750 $17.55 6.78$47,070 
(a)The aggregate intrinsic value is calculated as the difference between the exercise price and the closing price of Altice USA's Class A common stock at the respective date.
The total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.56 years.
The following weighted-average assumptions were used to calculate the fair values of stock option awards granted during the three months ended March 31, 2021:
Risk-free interest rate0.93%
Expected life (in years)6.18
Dividend yield—%
Volatility32.92%
Grant date fair value$10.77
Performance Stock Unit Awards
As of March 31, 2021, the Company had 7,330,235 PSUs outstanding. The PSUs have a weighted average grant date fair value of $10.65 per unit. The total unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding PSUs is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 4.85 years.
v3.21.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]  
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Affiliate and Related Party Transactions
Altice USA is controlled by Patrick Drahi who also controls Altice Europe N.V. ("Altice Europe") and its subsidiaries and other entities.
As the transactions discussed below were conducted between entities under common control by Mr. Drahi, amounts charged for certain services may not have represented amounts that might have been received or incurred if the transactions were based upon arm's length negotiations.
The following table summarizes the revenue and expenses related to services provided to or received from affiliates and related parties:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Revenue$3,406 $3,488 
Operating expenses:
Programming and other direct costs$(2,228)$(2,189)
Other operating expenses, net(3,179)(3,941)
Operating expenses, net(5,407)(6,130)
Net charges$(2,001)$(2,642)
Capital Expenditures$10,621 $7,225 
Revenue
The Company recognized revenue primarily from the sale of advertising to a subsidiary of Altice Europe and a foundation controlled by Patrick Drahi.
Programming and other direct costs
Programming and other direct costs include costs incurred by the Company for advertising services provided by a subsidiary of Altice Europe.
Other operating expenses, net
Other operating expenses primarily include charges for services provided by certain subsidiaries of Altice Europe and other related parties.
Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures primarily include costs for equipment purchased and software development services provided by subsidiaries of Altice Europe.
Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to affiliates and related parties are summarized below:
March 31,December 31,
20212020
Due from other affiliates and related parties$3,795 $4,262 
Due to:
Altice Europe$11,472 $7,938 
Other affiliates and related parties1,226 600 
$12,698 $8,538 

Amounts due from affiliates presented in the table above represent amounts paid by the Company on behalf of or for services provided to the respective related party. Amounts due to affiliates relate to the purchase of equipment and advertising services, as well as reimbursement for payments made on our behalf.
CSC Holdings
CSC Holdings made cash equity distribution payments to its parent aggregating $501,000, and $720,350 during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. CSC Holdings also recorded net non-cash equity contributions of $745 and $150,602 during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which represent the non-cash settlement of intercompany balances with Altice USA. These balances primarily include amounts due to/due from Altice USA pursuant to a tax sharing agreement between the entities.
v3.21.1
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Legal Matters
In the latter half of 2018, eight named plaintiffs, each on behalf of a putative class of stockholders who purchased Company common stock in Altice USA's IPO pursuant to the Registration Statement and Prospectus, filed complaints (seven in New York State Supreme Court, one in United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York). The lawsuits name as defendants Altice USA, Altice Europe, and Altice USA's directors, among others, and assert that all defendants violated Sections 11 and 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and that the individual defendants violated Section 15 of the Securities Act as control persons. In a consolidated amended complaint filed in the lawsuit in the Eastern District of New York, plaintiff also asserts violations of Section 10(b) of the Securities Act of 1934 ("34 Act"), Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, and Section 20 of the 34 Act against Altice USA, Altice Europe, and certain individual directors. The facts underlying each case are substantively similar, with plaintiffs alleging that the Registration Statement and Prospectus misrepresented or omitted material facts relating to the negative performance of Altice France and Altice Portugal, the disclosure of which in November 2017 negatively impacted the value of Altice USA’s stock. In June of 2019, plaintiffs in the New York State action filed a consolidated amended complaint, which the Company moved to dismiss in July of 2019. The Company moved to dismiss the complaint in the Eastern District of New York in October 2019. On June 26, 2020, the state Court granted the Company’s motion to dismiss. Plaintiffs in the New York State action filed a notice of appeal on July 21, 2020 and moved for leave to file an amended complaint on September 4, 2020. On September 23, 2020, the federal district court granted the Company’s motion to dismiss with leave for plaintiff to refile. On October 7, 2020, plaintiffs filed a second amended complaint in the Eastern District of New York. Following negotiations with the state and federal court plaintiffs, the parties executed a Memorandum of Understanding on February 12, 2021 to settle the litigation. That settlement remains subject to final documentation and court approval.
On June 23, 2020, a purported stockholder of the Company filed a complaint in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware, derivatively on behalf of the Company, against Patrick Drahi, Next Alt S.A.R.L., and those directors of the Company who are members of the Compensation Committee (collectively, the “Director Defendants”). The Company is also named as a nominal defendant in the complaint. The complaint alleges that the Director Defendants breached their fiduciary duties to the Company’s stockholders, and wasted corporate assets, by approving certain equity grants for Patrick Drahi. The complaint seeks rescission of the equity awards, monetary damages, and costs and disbursements for the plaintiff. On October 15, 2020, the Director Defendants answered the complaint and the Company filed a general denial of liability.
The Company intends to vigorously defend these lawsuits. Although the outcome of the matter cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these matters on the Company’s results of operations in any particular subsequent reporting period is not known at this time, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the operations or financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
On November 6, 2018, Sprint Communications Company L.P ("Sprint") filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware alleging that the Company infringes Sprint’s patents purportedly by providing Voice over Internet Protocol ("VoIP") services. On December 3, 2018, Sprint filed a second complaint alleging that the Company infringes Sprint’s patents purportedly by providing certain VOD related services. The lawsuits are part of a pattern of litigation that was initiated as far back as 2005 by Sprint against numerous broadband and telecommunications providers, which has resulted in judgments and settlements of significant value for Sprint. The Company intends to vigorously defend the lawsuits. Although the outcome of the matter cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of this matter on the Company’s results of operations in any particular subsequent reporting period is not known at this time, management does not believe that the ultimate resolution of the matter will have a material adverse effect on the operations or financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due, but it could be material to the Company’s consolidated results of operations or cash flows for any one period.
The Company receives notices from third parties and, in some cases, is named as a defendant in certain lawsuits claiming infringement of various patents relating to various aspects of the Company's businesses. In certain of these cases other industry participants are also defendants. In certain of these cases the Company expects that any potential liability would be the responsibility of the Company's equipment vendors pursuant to applicable contractual indemnification provisions.
In the event that the Company is found to infringe on any patent rights, the Company may be subject to substantial damages and/or an injunction that could require the Company or its vendors to modify certain products and services the Company offers to its subscribers, as well as enter into royalty or license agreements with respect to the patents at issue. The Company believes that the claims are without merit, but is unable to predict the outcome of these matters or reasonably estimate a range of possible loss.
In addition to the matters discussed above, the Company is party to various lawsuits, disputes and investigations, some of which may involve claims for substantial damages, fines or penalties. Although the outcome of these other matters cannot be predicted and the impact of the final resolution of these other matters on the Company's results of operations in a particular subsequent reporting period is not known, management does not believe that the resolution of these other lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the financial position of the Company or the ability of the Company to meet its financial obligations as they become due.
v3.21.1
Subsequent Events
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Subsequent Events [Abstract]  
Subsequent Events SUBSEQUENT EVENTS In April 2021, the Company completed its acquisition of the cable assets of Morris Broadband, LLC in North Carolina for $310,000, subject to certain closing adjustments as set forth in the asset purchase agreement.
v3.21.1
BASIS OF PRESENTATION (Policies)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Reclassifications
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications have been made to the 2020 financial statements to conform to the 2021 presentation.
v3.21.1
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue (Policies)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Revenue Recognition
Customer Contract Costs
Deferred enterprise commission costs are included in other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheets and totaled $18,864 and $19,959 as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.
A significant portion of our revenue is derived from residential and SMB customer contracts which are month-to month. As such, the amount of revenue related to unsatisfied performance obligations is not necessarily indicative of the future revenue to be recognized from our existing customer base. Contracts with enterprise customers generally range from three years to five years, and services may only be terminated in accordance with the contractual terms.
v3.21.1
COMMON STOCK (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Schedule of Stock by Class
 Shares of Common Stock Outstanding
 Class A
Common Stock		Class B
Common Stock
Balance at December 31, 2020290,573,672 185,895,903 
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock97,510 (97,510)
Option exercises104,365 — 
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's share repurchase plan (discussed above)(15,179,697)— 
Treasury shares reissued583,164 — 
Balance at March 31, 2021276,179,014 185,798,393 
v3.21.1
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table presents the composition of revenue:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Broadband$970,571 $885,529 
Video905,834 947,061 
Telephony106,981 125,030 
Residential revenue1,983,386 1,957,620 
Business services and wholesale revenue367,216 364,530 
News and advertising105,070 105,540 
Mobile19,235 18,356 
Other3,914 4,210 
Total revenue$2,478,821 $2,450,256 
v3.21.1
Earnings Per Share (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
The following table presents a reconciliation of weighted average shares used in the calculations of the basic and diluted net income per share attributable to Altice USA stockholders for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
(in thousands)
Basic weighted average shares outstanding469,233 621,414 
Effect of dilution:
Stock options6,170 — 
Restricted stock45 — 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding475,448 621,414 
Weighted average shares excluded from diluted weighted average shares outstanding:
Anti-dilutive shares495 22,525 
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been achieved.
8,748 8,981 
v3.21.1
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]  
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities and Other Supplemental Data
The Company's non-cash investing and financing activities and other supplemental data were as follows:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Altice USA and CSC Holdings:
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid
$266,995 $219,889 
Unsettled purchases of shares of Altice USA, Inc. Class A common stock, pursuant to a share repurchase program
18,942 23,993 
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for finance lease obligations
38,348 27,674 
CSC Holdings:
Distributions to parent
745 150,602 

Supplemental Data:
Altice USA:
Cash interest paid
310,878 474,268 
Income taxes paid, net
9,727 1,195 
CSC Holdings:
Cash interest paid
310,878 474,268 
Income taxes paid, net
9,727 1,195 
v3.21.1
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
Restructuring Cost Activity
The Company's restructuring and other expense is comprised of the following:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Contractual payments for terminated employees$1,856 $3,121 
Facility realignment costs324 1,979 
Impairment of right-of-use operating lease assets405 1,705 
Transaction costs related to certain transactions not related to the Company's operations624 489 
$3,209 $7,294 
As of March 31, 2021, the outstanding amounts due to terminated employees of $13,185 and the outstanding amounts related to facility realignment costs of $5,503 are reflected in other current and other long-term liabilities in the Company's consolidated balance sheet.
v3.21.1
LEASES (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]  
Lesee, Operating Lease And Finance Lease, Liability
Balance sheet information related to our leases is presented below:
Balance Sheet locationMarch 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Operating leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsRight-of-use operating lease assets$234,358 $241,342 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentOther current liabilities38,373 38,296 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termRight-of-use operating lease liability248,758 257,424 
Finance leases:
Right-of-use lease assetsProperty, plant and equipment195,354 170,155 
Right-of-use lease liability, currentCurrent portion of long-term debt76,123 63,454 
Right-of-use lease liability, long-termLong-term debt103,532 96,183 
Lease, Cost
The following provides details of the Company's lease expense:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Operating lease expense, net$14,307 $15,004 

Finance lease expense:
Amortization of assets11,574 4,460
Interest on lease liabilities2,101 1,027
Total finance lease expense13,675 5,487
$27,982 $20,491 
Lessee, Topic 842, Other Lease Information
Other information related to leases is presented below:
As of March 31,
20212020
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for operating lease obligations$2,865 $12,875 
Cash Paid For Amounts Included In Measurement of Liabilities:
Operating cash flows related to finance leases2,101 1,027 
Operating cash flows related to operating leases15,457 16,659 
Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term:
Operating leases8.8 years9.3 years
Finance leases2.4 years3.1 years
Weighted Average Discount Rate:
Operating leases5.60 %5.90 %
Finance leases5.16 %5.50 %
Finance Lease, Liability, Maturity
The minimum future annual payments under non-cancellable leases during the next five years and thereafter, at rates now in force, are as follows:
Finance leasesOperating leases
2021 (excluding the three months ended March 31, 2021)$62,394 $30,274 
202278,946 52,862 
202343,839 45,139 
20245,231 41,448 
2025292 33,458 
Thereafter— 167,700 
Total future minimum lease payments, undiscounted190,702 370,881 
Less: Imputed interest(11,047)(83,750)
Present value of future minimum lease payments$179,655 $287,131 
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity
The minimum future annual payments under non-cancellable leases during the next five years and thereafter, at rates now in force, are as follows:
Finance leasesOperating leases
2021 (excluding the three months ended March 31, 2021)$62,394 $30,274 
202278,946 52,862 
202343,839 45,139 
20245,231 41,448 
2025292 33,458 
Thereafter— 167,700 
Total future minimum lease payments, undiscounted190,702 370,881 
Less: Imputed interest(11,047)(83,750)
Present value of future minimum lease payments$179,655 $287,131 
v3.21.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class
The following table summarizes information relating to the Company's acquired amortizable intangible assets: 
As of March 31, 2021As of December 31, 2020
Gross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross Carrying AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountEstimated Useful Lives
Customer relationships
$6,052,598 $(3,618,697)$2,433,901 $6,052,598 $(3,478,742)$2,573,856 3 to 18 years
Trade names
1,081,083 (917,820)163,263 1,081,083 (894,189)186,894 2 to 5 years
Other amortizable intangibles
56,762 (37,909)18,853 56,747 (36,381)20,366 1 to 15 years
$7,190,443 $(4,574,426)$2,616,017 $7,190,428 $(4,409,312)$2,781,116 
v3.21.1
DEBT (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities
The following table provides details of the Company's outstanding debt:
Interest RateMarch 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Date IssuedMaturity DatePrincipal AmountCarrying Amount (a)Principal AmountCarrying Amount (a)
CSC Holdings Senior Notes:
November 15, 2011November 15, 20216.750 %$1,000,000 $992,691 $1,000,000 $989,917 
September 27, 2012September 15, 20225.875 %649,024 621,617 649,024 617,333 
May 23, 2014June 1, 20245.250 %750,000 700,419 750,000 697,041 
October 18, 2018April 1, 20287.500 %4,118 4,112 4,118 4,112 
November 27, 2018April 1, 20287.500 %1,045,882 1,044,462 1,045,882 1,044,424 
July 10 and October 7, 2019January 15, 20305.750 %2,250,000 2,285,317 2,250,000 2,286,097 
June 16, 2020December 1, 20304.625 %2,325,000 2,369,628 2,325,000 2,370,502 
8,024,024  8,018,246 8,024,024 8,009,426 
CSC Holdings Senior Guaranteed Notes:
September 23, 2016April 15, 20275.500 %1,310,000 1,306,088 1,310,000 1,305,955 
January 29, 2018February 1, 20285.375 %1,000,000 993,677 1,000,000 993,490 
November 27, 2018May 15, 20265.500 %1,498,806 1,488,086 1,498,806 1,487,644 
January 24, 2019February 1, 20296.500 %1,750,000 1,747,309 1,750,000 1,747,245 
June 16, 2020December 1, 20304.125 %1,100,000 1,095,377 1,100,000 1,095,283 
August 17, 2020February 15, 20313.375 %1,000,000 996,760 1,000,000 996,692 
7,658,806 7,627,297 7,658,806 7,626,309 
CSC Holdings Restricted Group Credit Facility:
Revolving Credit Facility(c)2.358 %(b)575,000 566,720 625,000 616,027 
Term Loan BJuly 17, 20252.356 %2,887,500 2,877,145 2,895,000 2,884,065 
Incremental Term Loan B-3January 15, 20262.356 %1,249,500 1,245,315 1,252,688 1,248,293 
Incremental Term Loan B-5April 15, 20272.606 %2,970,000 2,950,038 2,977,500 2,956,807 
7,682,000 7,639,218 7,750,188 7,705,192 
Lightpath Senior Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20285.625 %415,000 406,400 415,000 406,176 
Lightpath Senior Secured Notes:
September 29, 2020September 15, 20273.875 %450,000 440,791 450,000 440,487 
Lightpath Term LoanNovember 30, 20273.750 %598,500 581,879 600,000 582,808 
Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility(d)— — — — 
1,463,500 1,429,070 1,465,000 1,429,471 
Collateralized indebtedness (see Note 11)1,759,017 1,677,985 1,699,566 1,617,506 
Finance lease obligations (see Note 8)179,655 179,655 159,637 159,637 
Notes payable and supply chain financing (e)118,065 118,065 183,690 174,801 
26,885,067 26,689,536 26,940,911 26,722,342 
Less: current portion of credit facility debt(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)(78,750)
Less: current portion of senior notes(1,000,000)(992,691)(1,000,000)(989,917)
Less: current portion of finance lease obligations(76,123)(76,123)(63,454)(63,454)
Less: current portion of notes payable and supply chain financing(110,491)(110,491)(113,592)(113,592)
(1,265,364)(1,258,055)(1,255,796)(1,245,713)
Long-term debt$25,619,703 $25,431,481 $25,685,115 $25,476,629 
(a)The carrying amount is net of the unamortized deferred financing costs and/or discounts/premiums and with respect to certain notes, a fair value adjustment resulting from the acquisitions of Cequel Corporation and Cablevision Systems Corporation.
(b)At March 31, 2021, $137,875 of the revolving credit facility was restricted for certain letters of credit issued on behalf of the Company and $1,762,125 of the facility was undrawn and available, subject to covenant limitations.
(c)The revolving credit facility of an aggregate principal amount of $2,475,000 matures in January 2024 and is priced at LIBOR plus 2.25%. In March 2021, a lender under the revolving credit facility extended the maturity date and reduced the interest rate on its aggregate principal amount of $200,000 which had an original maturity date of November 2021 and was priced at LIBOR plus 3.25%.
(d)There were no borrowings outstanding under the Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility which provides for commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $100,000. Borrowings bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the adjusted LIBOR rate or the alternate base rate, as applicable, plus the applicable margin, where the applicable margin is (i) with respect to any alternate base rate loan, 2.25% per annum and (ii) with respect to any eurodollar loan, 3.25% per annum.
(e)Includes $99,941 related to supply chain financing agreements that are required to be repaid within one year from the date of the respective agreement. The decrease in the principal amount at March 31, 2021 includes a $59,451 reclassification to collateralized indebtedness in connection with the maturity of a monetization contract related to the synthetic monetization closeout transaction in November 2019.
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt
The future maturities of debt payable by the Company under its various debt obligations outstanding as of March 31, 2021, including notes payable and collateralized indebtedness (see Note 11), but excluding finance lease obligations (see Note 8), are as follows:
2021$1,166,479 
2022734,667 
20231,841,383 
20241,403,889 
20252,823,750 
Thereafter18,735,244 
v3.21.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives
The following represents the location of the assets and liabilities associated with the Company's derivative instruments within the consolidated balance sheets:
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging InstrumentsBalance Sheet LocationFair Value at
March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Asset Derivatives:
Interest rate swap contracts
Derivative contracts, short-term$8,252 $5,132 
Prepaid forward contracts
Derivative contracts, short-term— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contracts
Derivative contracts, long-term— 4,774 
8,252 55,559 
Liability Derivatives:
Prepaid forward contracts
Other current liabilities— (45,653)
Interest rate swap contracts
Other current liabilities(12,861)— 
Prepaid forward contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(301,418)(247,853)
Interest rate swap contracts
Liabilities under derivative contracts, long-term(170,984)(275,297)
 $(485,263)$(568,803)
Location of Assets and Liabilities Associated With Derivative Instruments Within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
The following table presents certain consolidated statement of operations data related to our derivative contracts and the underlying common stock:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock$(53,565)$439,861 
Change in the fair value of Comcast common stock included in gain (loss) on investments
73,453 (454,896)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in the 2020 period in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below75,653 (54,832)
In March 2020, the Company terminated two swap agreements whereby the Company was paying a floating rate of interest and receiving a fixed rate of interest on an aggregate notional value of $1,500,000. These contracts were due to mature in May 2026. In connection with the early termination, the Company received cash of $74,835 which has been recorded in loss on interest swap contracts, net in our consolidated statement of operations and presented in operating activities in our consolidated statement of cash flows.
In addition, in March 2020, the Company executed amendments to two interest swap contracts that reduced the fixed rate of interest that the Company was paying on an aggregate notional value of $1,000,000 and extended the maturity date of the contracts to January 15, 2025 from January 15, 2022.
Schedule of Collateralized Debt Settlement
The following is a summary of interest rate swap contracts outstanding at March 31, 2021:
Trade DateMaturity DateNotional AmountCompany PaysCompany Receives
December 2018January 2025$500,000 Fixed rate of 1.53%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018January 2022500,000 Fixed rate of 2.733%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018January 2025500,000 Fixed rate of 1.625%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 Fixed rate of 2.9155%Three-month LIBOR
December 2018December 2026750,000 Fixed rate of 2.9025%Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2025500,000 Fixed rate of 1.458%Three-month LIBOR
March 2020January 2022500,000 Three-month LIBORFixed rate of 2.733%
April 2020April 20212,850,000 Six-month LIBOR minus 0.5185%One-month LIBOR
v3.21.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following table presents the Company's financial assets and financial liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis and their classification under the fair value hierarchy:
Fair Value
Hierarchy		March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Assets:
Money market funds
Level I$150,965 $50,236 
Investment securities pledged as collateralLevel I2,324,308 2,250,854 
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II— 45,653 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II8,252 9,906 
Liabilities:
Prepaid forward contractsLevel II(301,418)293,506 
Interest rate swap contractsLevel II(183,845)275,297 
Schedule of Carrying Values and Estimated Fair Values of Debt Instruments
March 31, 2021December 31, 2020
Fair Value
Hierarchy		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value		Carrying
Amount (a)		Estimated
Fair Value
Credit facility debtLevel II$8,221,097 $8,280,500 $8,288,000 $8,350,188 
Collateralized indebtednessLevel II1,677,985 1,753,986 1,617,506 1,692,724 
Senior guaranteed notes and senior secured notesLevel II8,068,088 8,363,231 8,066,796 8,567,858 
Senior notesLevel II8,424,646 8,734,561 8,415,602 9,024,990 
Notes payable and supply chain financingLevel II118,065 118,183 174,801 175,251 
$26,509,881 $27,250,461 $26,562,705 $27,811,011 
(a)Amounts are net of unamortized deferred financing costs and discounts/premiums.
v3.21.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Activity for Shares
The following table summarizes activity relating to the Company's Carry Unit Plan:
Number of Time
Vesting Awards		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Balance, December 31, 20206,875,000 $3.41 
Vested(5,375,000)3.80 
Balance, March 31, 20211,500,000 $1.99 
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity
The following table summarizes activity related to stock options granted to Company employees:
 Shares Under OptionWeighted Average
Exercise
Price Per Share		Weighted Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)		Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (a)
Balance at December 31, 202037,062,146 $25.52 8.69$457,608 
Granted409,478 34.78 
Exercised(104,365)17.79 
Forfeited(360,778)26.10 
Balance at March 31, 202137,006,481 25.64 8.46256,796 
Options exercisable at March 31, 20213,141,750 $17.55 6.78$47,070 
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions
Risk-free interest rate0.93%
Expected life (in years)6.18
Dividend yield—%
Volatility32.92%
Grant date fair value$10.77
v3.21.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Tables)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]  
Summary of related party transactions
The following table summarizes the revenue and expenses related to services provided to or received from affiliates and related parties:
Three Months Ended March 31,
20212020
Revenue$3,406 $3,488 
Operating expenses:
Programming and other direct costs$(2,228)$(2,189)
Other operating expenses, net(3,179)(3,941)
Operating expenses, net(5,407)(6,130)
Net charges$(2,001)$(2,642)
Capital Expenditures$10,621 $7,225 
Aggregate amounts that were due from and due to affiliates and related parties are summarized below:
March 31,December 31,
20212020
Due from other affiliates and related parties$3,795 $4,262 
Due to:
Altice Europe$11,472 $7,938 
Other affiliates and related parties1,226 600 
$12,698 $8,538 
v3.21.1
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND RELATED MATTERS (Details)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
segment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Number of segments 1
v3.21.1
COMMON STOCK (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 34 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2021
Nov. 19, 2020
Jul. 31, 2019
Jun. 08, 2018
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]              
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's share repurchase plan (discussed above) (15,179,697)   (277,093,742)        
Ending balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 461,977,407   461,977,407        
Value of shares repurchased $ 522,673 $ 749,998 $ 7,526,443        
Availability remaining under its stock repurchase program       $ 1,473,557      
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 461,977,407   461,977,407 461,977,407      
Share repurchase authorized         $ 2,000,000   $ 2,000,000
Total shares authorized for repurchase              
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]              
Share repurchase authorized       $ 9,000,000      
2019 Share Repurchase Authorization [Member]              
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]              
Share repurchase authorized           $ 5,000,000  
Common Class A              
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]              
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance 290,573,672            
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock 97,510            
Option exercises 104,365            
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's share repurchase plan (discussed above) (15,179,697)            
Treasury shares reissued 583,164            
Ending balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 276,179,014   276,179,014        
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 276,179,014   276,179,014 276,179,014      
Number of shares of common stock converted (in shares) 97,510            
Common Class B              
Common Stock Outstanding Roll Forward [Roll Forward]              
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding, Beginning Balance 185,895,903            
Conversion of Class B common stock to Class A common stock (97,510)            
Option exercises 0            
Repurchase and retirement of Class A common shares in connection with the Company's share repurchase plan (discussed above) 0            
Ending balance common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 185,798,393   185,798,393        
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 185,798,393   185,798,393 185,798,393      
Number of shares of common stock converted (in shares) (97,510)            
v3.21.1
Revenue Recognition and Deferred Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 2,478,821 $ 2,450,256  
Contract assets $ 18,864   $ 19,959
Customer Contracts | Minimum      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 3 years    
Customer Contracts | Maximum      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 5 years    
Broadband [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues $ 970,571 885,529  
Pay TV [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 905,834 947,061  
Telephony [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 106,981 125,030  
Total Residential Revenue      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 1,983,386 1,957,620  
Business Services and Wholesale [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 367,216 364,530  
Advertising and News [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 105,070 105,540  
Mobile [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 19,235 18,356  
Products And Services, Other [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Revenues 3,914 4,210  
Franchise [Member]      
Contract Assets and Liabilities [Line Items]      
Franchise fees and other taxes and fees $ 66,056 $ 64,910  
v3.21.1
Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares
shares in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]    
Basic weighted average common shares (in thousands) 469,233 621,414
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements 6,170 0
Diluted weighted average common shares (in thousands) 475,448 621,414
Anti-dilutive shares 495 22,525
Performance stock units and restricted stock whose performance metrics have not been achieved. 8,748 8,981
Restricted Stock Award    
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]    
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements 45 0
v3.21.1
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:    
Property and equipment accrued but unpaid $ 266,995 $ 219,889
Unsettled purchases of shares of Altice USA, Inc. Class A common stock, pursuant to a share repurchase program 18,942 23,993
Right-of-use assets acquired in exchange for finance lease obligations 38,348 27,674
Distributions to parent 745 150,602
Supplemental Data:    
Cash interest paid 310,878 474,268
Income taxes paid, net 9,727 1,195
CSC Holdings    
Supplemental Data:    
Cash interest paid 310,878 474,268
Income taxes paid, net $ 9,727 $ 1,195
v3.21.1
RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER EXPENSE (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]    
Restructuring Charges $ 3,209 $ 7,294
Restructuring expense relating to right of use operating leases 405 1,705
Transaction costs 624 489
Employee Severance [Member]    
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]    
Restructuring Charges 1,856 3,121
Accrual, ending balance 13,185  
Facility Realignment and Other Costs [Member]    
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]    
Restructuring Charges 324 $ 1,979
Accrual, ending balance $ 5,503  
v3.21.1
LEASES - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]      
Right-of-use operating lease assets $ 234,358   $ 241,342
Operating Lease, Liability, Current 38,373   38,296
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent 248,758   257,424
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset 195,354   170,155
Finance Lease, Liability, Current 76,123   63,454
Finance Lease, Liability, Noncurrent 103,532   $ 96,183
Operating Lease Expense, Net 14,307 $ 15,004  
Finance Lease, Right-of-Use Asset, Amortization 11,574 4,460  
Finance Lease, Interest Expense 2,101 1,027  
Finance Lease, Cost 13,675 5,487  
Finance And Operating Lease, Lessee Expense 27,982 20,491  
Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability 2,865 12,875  
Finance Lease, Interest Payment on Liability 2,101 1,027  
Operating Lease, Payments $ 15,457 $ 16,659  
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term 8 years 9 months 18 days 9 years 3 months 18 days  
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term 2 years 4 months 24 days 3 years 1 month 6 days  
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent 5.60% 5.90%  
Finance Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent 5.16% 5.50%  
v3.21.1
LEASES (Details)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months $ 62,394
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 78,946
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 43,839
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 5,231
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five 292
Finance Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five 0
Finance Lease, Liability, Payment, Due, Total 190,702
Finance Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments 11,047
Finance Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments 179,655
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Next Twelve Months 30,274
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 52,862
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 45,139
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 41,448
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five 33,458
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Five 167,700
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due, Total 370,881
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments 83,750
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments $ 287,131
v3.21.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Summary of Acquired Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount $ 7,190,443 $ 7,190,428
Accumulated Amortization (4,574,426) (4,409,312)
Net Carrying Amount 2,616,017 2,781,116
Customer Relationships [Member]    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 6,052,598 6,052,598
Accumulated Amortization (3,618,697) (3,478,742)
Net Carrying Amount 2,433,901 2,573,856
Trade names    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 1,081,083 1,081,083
Accumulated Amortization (917,820) (894,189)
Net Carrying Amount 163,263 186,894
Other amortizable intangibles    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Gross Carrying Amount 56,762 56,747
Accumulated Amortization (37,909) (36,381)
Net Carrying Amount $ 18,853 $ 20,366
Minimum | Customer Relationships [Member]    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 3 years  
Minimum | Trade names    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 2 years  
Minimum | Other amortizable intangibles    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 1 year  
Maximum | Customer Relationships [Member]    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 18 years  
Maximum | Trade names    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 5 years  
Maximum | Other amortizable intangibles    
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life 15 years  
v3.21.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]    
Amortization of intangible assets $ 165,114 $ 201,099
v3.21.1
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Indefinite-lived assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]    
Goodwill $ 8,160,566 $ 8,160,566
Cable television franchises $ 13,068,017 $ 13,068,017
v3.21.1
DEBT - Credit Silo Combination (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 26,885,067,000 $ 26,940,911,000
Long-term debt   26,689,536,000 26,722,342,000
Face Amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes   7,658,806,000 7,658,806,000
Carrying amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes   7,627,297,000 7,626,309,000
Face amount of Credit Facility Debt   7,682,000,000 7,750,188,000
Carrying value of Credit Facility Debt   7,639,218,000 7,705,192,000
Finance Lease, Liability   179,655,000 159,637,000
Debt   1,258,055,000 1,245,713,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Current   76,123,000 63,454,000
Long-term debt, net of current maturities   25,431,481,000 25,476,629,000
Principal Amount   26,885,067,000 26,940,911,000
Face Amount of Senior Notes   8,024,024,000 8,024,024,000
Carrying amount of Senior Notes   8,018,246,000 8,009,426,000
Senior Notes, Current   (992,691,000) (989,917,000)
Cablevision Lightpath      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Face Amount of Senior Notes and Senior Secured Notes   1,463,500,000 1,465,000,000
Carrying amount of Senior Notes and Senior Secured Notes   1,429,070,000 1,429,471,000
Loans Payable      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   110,491,000 113,592,000
Long-term debt   110,491,000 113,592,000
Principal Amount   110,491,000 113,592,000
Credit Facility [Domain]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   78,750,000 78,750,000
Debt   78,750,000 78,750,000
Principal Amount   78,750,000 78,750,000
Short-term Debt      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   1,265,364,000 1,255,796,000
Debt   1,258,055,000 1,245,713,000
Principal Amount   1,265,364,000 1,255,796,000
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,249,500,000 1,252,688,000
Stated interest rate   2.356%  
Credit facility   $ 1,245,315,000 1,248,293,000
Principal Amount   1,249,500,000 1,252,688,000
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 575,000,000 625,000,000
Stated interest rate   2.358%  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   $ 2,475,000,000  
Credit facility   566,720,000 616,027,000
Principal Amount   $ 575,000,000 625,000,000
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Secured Debt [Member] | LIBOR      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Basis spread on variable rate   2.25%  
CSC Holdings Term Loan B | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 2,887,500,000 2,895,000,000
Stated interest rate   2.356%  
Credit facility   $ 2,877,145,000 2,884,065,000
Principal Amount   2,887,500,000 2,895,000,000
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 2,970,000,000 2,977,500,000
Stated interest rate   2.606%  
Credit facility   $ 2,950,038,000 2,956,807,000
Principal Amount   2,970,000,000 2,977,500,000
Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   1,759,017,000 1,699,566,000
Long-term debt   1,677,985,000 1,617,506,000
Principal Amount   1,759,017,000 1,699,566,000
Loans Payable      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   118,065,000 183,690,000
Long-term debt   118,065,000 174,801,000
Principal Amount   118,065,000 183,690,000
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 598,500,000 600,000,000
Stated interest rate   3.75%  
Credit facility   $ 581,879,000 582,808,000
Principal Amount   598,500,000 600,000,000
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Basis spread on variable rate 3.25%    
Cablevision Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   0 0
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   100,000,000  
Credit facility   0 0
Principal Amount   0 0
Senior Notes | 8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Stated interest rate   3.375%  
Outstanding debt   $ 996,760,000 996,692,000
Principal Amount   1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Senior Notes | 6.75% Notes due November 15, 2021      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Stated interest rate   6.75%  
Outstanding debt   $ 992,691,000 989,917,000
Principal Amount   1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Senior Notes | 5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 649,024,000 649,024,000
Stated interest rate   5.875%  
Outstanding debt   $ 621,617,000 617,333,000
Principal Amount   649,024,000 649,024,000
Senior Notes | 5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 750,000,000 750,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.25%  
Outstanding debt   $ 700,419,000 697,041,000
Principal Amount   750,000,000 750,000,000
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 4,118,000 4,118,000
Stated interest rate   7.50%  
Outstanding debt   $ 4,112,000 4,112,000
Principal Amount   4,118,000 4,118,000
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,045,882,000 1,045,882,000
Stated interest rate   7.50%  
Outstanding debt   $ 1,044,462,000 1,044,424,000
Principal Amount   1,045,882,000 1,045,882,000
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.75%  
Outstanding debt   $ 2,285,317,000 2,286,097,000
Principal Amount   2,250,000,000 2,250,000,000
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 4.625% Notes due December 1, 2030      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 2,325,000,000 2,325,000,000
Stated interest rate   4.625%  
Outstanding debt   $ 2,369,628,000 2,370,502,000
Principal Amount   2,325,000,000 2,325,000,000
Senior Notes | Cablevision Lightpath LLC 5.625% Notes due September 15, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 415,000,000 415,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.625%  
Outstanding debt   $ 406,400,000 406,176,000
Principal Amount   415,000,000 415,000,000
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.500% Notes due May 15, 2026      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,498,806,000 1,498,806,000
Stated interest rate   5.50%  
Outstanding debt   $ 1,488,086,000 1,487,644,000
Principal Amount   1,498,806,000 1,498,806,000
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,310,000,000 1,310,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.50%  
Outstanding debt   $ 1,306,088,000 1,305,955,000
Principal Amount   1,310,000,000 1,310,000,000
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes Due February 1, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.375%  
Outstanding debt   $ 993,677,000 993,490,000
Principal Amount   1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,750,000,000 1,750,000,000
Stated interest rate   6.50%  
Outstanding debt   $ 1,747,309,000 1,747,245,000
Principal Amount   1,750,000,000 1,750,000,000
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 4.125% Notes due December 1, 2030      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 1,100,000,000 1,100,000,000
Stated interest rate   4.125%  
Outstanding debt   $ 1,095,377,000 1,095,283,000
Principal Amount   1,100,000,000 1,100,000,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Cablevision Lightpath LLC 3.875% Notes due September 15, 2027      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   $ 450,000,000 450,000,000
Stated interest rate   3.875%  
Outstanding debt   $ 440,791,000 440,487,000
Principal Amount   450,000,000 450,000,000
Long-term Debt      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount   25,619,703,000 25,685,115,000
Long-term debt, net of current maturities   25,431,481,000 25,476,629,000
Principal Amount   $ 25,619,703,000 $ 25,685,115,000
v3.21.1
DEBT - Schedule of Exchange Agreement (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Principal amount $ 26,885,067 $ 26,940,911
v3.21.1
DEBT - CSC Holdings Credit Facilities (Details) - USD ($)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 26,885,067,000   $ 26,940,911,000
Proceeds from long-term debt 150,000,000 $ 0  
Repayments of line of credit 225,863,000 18,183,000  
CSC Holdings      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Cash distributions to parent 501,000,000 720,350,000  
Proceeds from long-term debt 150,000,000 0  
Repayments of line of credit 225,863,000 $ 18,183,000  
5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027 | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 1,310,000,000   1,310,000,000
Stated interest rate 5.50%    
8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020 | Senior Notes      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 1,000,000,000   1,000,000,000
Stated interest rate 3.375%    
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | LIBOR      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%    
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-3      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 1,249,500,000   1,252,688,000
Secured Debt [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B-5      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 2,970,000,000   2,977,500,000
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility - Non-Extend Creditors [Member] | LIBOR      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Basis spread on variable rate 3.25%    
Revolving Credit Facility | CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity $ 2,475,000,000    
Principal amount $ 575,000,000   $ 625,000,000
v3.21.1
DEBT - Cequel Credit Facilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]    
Principal amount $ 26,885,067 $ 26,940,911
v3.21.1
DEBT - Credit Facilities Outstanding (Details) - USD ($)
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Long-term debt $ 26,689,536,000 $ 26,722,342,000
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility, Portion Due October 9, 2020 | Revolving Credit Facility    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity $ 200,000  
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Stated interest rate 2.358%  
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity $ 2,475,000,000  
Credit facility, Carrying Value 566,720,000 616,027,000
Letters of credit outstanding 137,875,000  
Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity $ 1,762,125,000  
CSC Holdings Term Loan B | Secured Debt [Member]    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Stated interest rate 2.356%  
Credit facility, Carrying Value $ 2,877,145,000 2,884,065,000
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Stated interest rate 2.356%  
Credit facility, Carrying Value $ 1,245,315,000 1,248,293,000
Secured Debt [Member]    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Long-term debt $ 1,677,985,000 $ 1,617,506,000
v3.21.1
DEBT - Senior Guaranteed Notes and Senior Notes and Debentures (Details) - USD ($)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 26,885,067,000   $ 26,940,911,000
Less: Current portion 992,691,000   989,917,000
Face Amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes 7,658,806,000   7,658,806,000
Carrying amount of Senior Notes and Senior Guaranteed Notes 7,627,297,000   7,626,309,000
Face amount of Credit Facility Debt 7,682,000,000   7,750,188,000
Carrying value of Credit Facility Debt 7,639,218,000   7,705,192,000
Finance Lease, Liability 179,655,000   159,637,000
Long-term debt 26,689,536,000   26,722,342,000
Debt 1,258,055,000   1,245,713,000
Finance Lease, Liability, Current 76,123,000   63,454,000
Long-term debt, net of current maturities 25,431,481,000   25,476,629,000
Repayments of line of credit 225,863,000 $ 18,183,000  
Loans Payable      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount 110,491,000   113,592,000
Long-term debt 110,491,000   113,592,000
Short-term Debt      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount 1,265,364,000   1,255,796,000
Debt 1,258,055,000   1,245,713,000
Credit Facility [Domain]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount 78,750,000   78,750,000
Debt 78,750,000   78,750,000
Incremental Term Loan B-3 | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 1,249,500,000   1,252,688,000
Stated interest rate 2.356%    
Credit facility $ 1,245,315,000   1,248,293,000
Incremental Term Loan B-5 | Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 2,970,000,000   2,977,500,000
Stated interest rate 2.606%    
Credit facility $ 2,950,038,000   2,956,807,000
Loans Payable      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount 118,065,000   183,690,000
Long-term debt 118,065,000   174,801,000
Secured Debt [Member]      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount 1,759,017,000   1,699,566,000
Long-term debt 1,677,985,000   1,617,506,000
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount $ 575,000,000   625,000,000
Stated interest rate 2.358%    
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity $ 2,475,000,000    
Credit facility $ 566,720,000   616,027,000
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 5.50%    
Principal amount $ 1,310,000,000   1,310,000,000
Carrying Amount $ 1,306,088,000   1,305,955,000
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.375% Senior Guaranteed Notes Due February 1, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 5.375%    
Principal amount $ 1,000,000,000   1,000,000,000
Carrying Amount $ 993,677,000   993,490,000
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 5.500% Notes due May 15, 2026      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 5.50%    
Principal amount $ 1,498,806,000   1,498,806,000
Carrying Amount $ 1,488,086,000   1,487,644,000
Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings 6.500% Notes due February 1, 2029      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 6.50%    
Principal amount $ 1,750,000,000   1,750,000,000
Carrying Amount 1,747,309,000   1,747,245,000
Long-term Debt      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Principal amount 25,619,703,000   25,685,115,000
Long-term debt, net of current maturities $ 25,431,481,000   25,476,629,000
Senior Notes | 6.75% Notes due November 15, 2021      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 6.75%    
Principal amount $ 1,000,000,000   1,000,000,000
Carrying Amount $ 992,691,000   989,917,000
Senior Notes | 5.25% Notes due June 1, 2024      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 5.25%    
Principal amount $ 750,000,000   750,000,000
Carrying Amount $ 700,419,000   697,041,000
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 7.50%    
Principal amount $ 1,045,882,000   1,045,882,000
Carrying Amount $ 1,044,462,000   1,044,424,000
Senior Notes | 8.0% Notes due April 15, 2020      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 3.375%    
Principal amount $ 1,000,000,000   1,000,000,000
Carrying Amount $ 996,760,000   996,692,000
Senior Notes | 5.875% Notes due September 15, 2022      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 5.875%    
Principal amount $ 649,024,000   649,024,000
Carrying Amount $ 621,617,000   617,333,000
Senior Notes | Cablevision 7.500% Notes due April 1, 2028      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 7.50%    
Principal amount $ 4,118,000   4,118,000
Carrying Amount $ 4,112,000   4,112,000
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030      
Debt Instrument [Line Items]      
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage 5.75%    
Principal amount $ 2,250,000,000   2,250,000,000
Carrying Amount $ 2,285,317,000   $ 2,286,097,000
v3.21.1
DEBT - Senior Guaranteed Notes, Senior Secured Notes, and Senior Notes and Debentures (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal amount   $ 26,885,067,000   $ 26,940,911,000
Long-term debt   26,689,536,000   26,722,342,000
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues   2,044,000 $ 2,507,000  
Collateralized Agreements   99,941,000    
Notes Payable that will be reclassed to collateralized debt upon maturity   $ 59,451,000    
Cablevision Lightpath LLC | Cablevision Lightpath LLC        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Ownership percentage of noncontrolling interest   50.01%    
CSC Holdings Revolving Credit Facility, Portion Due October 9, 2020 | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   $ 200,000    
Cablevision Lightpath Revolving Credit Facility | Revolving Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal amount   0   0
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity   100,000,000    
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member]        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal amount   598,500,000   600,000,000
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member] | Alternate Base Rate        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate 2.25%      
Cablevision Lightpath Term B Loan | Secured Debt [Member] | Eurodollar        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate 3.25%      
Senior Notes | CSC Holdings 5.750% Notes due January 15, 2030        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal amount   $ 2,250,000,000   2,250,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.75%    
Secured Debt [Member] | 5.5% Notes due April 15, 2027        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal amount   $ 1,310,000,000   1,310,000,000
Stated interest rate   5.50%    
Long-term Debt        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Principal amount   $ 25,619,703,000   $ 25,685,115,000
v3.21.1
DEBT - Summary of Debt Maturities (Details)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
2019 $ 1,166,479
2020 734,667
2021 1,841,383
2022 1,403,889
2023 2,823,750
Thereafter $ 18,735,244
v3.21.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Settlements of Collateralized Indebtedness (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 1 Months Ended 3 Months Ended
Jan. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative [Line Items]      
Number of shares (in shares) 5,337,750    
Notes Payable that will be reclassed to collateralized debt upon maturity   $ 59,451  
Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt   185,105 $ 0
Comcast Synthetic Monetization Closeout      
Derivative [Line Items]      
Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt   $ 185,102  
v3.21.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Location of Assets and Liabilities Within the Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) - Not Designated as Hedging Instruments - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset $ 8,252 $ 55,559  
Liability Derivatives 485,263 568,803  
Interest Rate Swap | Current derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset 8,252 5,132  
Interest Rate Swap | Long-term derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset 0 4,774  
Interest Rate Swap | Short-term liabilities under derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Liability Derivatives 12,861 0  
Interest Rate Swap | Long-term liabilities under derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Liability Derivatives (170,984) (275,297)  
Prepaid forward contracts | Current derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset   0 $ 45,653
Prepaid forward contracts | Short-term liabilities under derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Liability Derivatives 0 (45,653)  
Prepaid forward contracts | Long-term liabilities under derivative contracts      
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]      
Liability Derivatives $ (301,418) $ (247,853)  
v3.21.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative [Line Items]    
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock $ (53,565) $ 439,861
Change in the fair value of Comcast common stock included in gain (loss) on investments 73,453 (454,896)
Gain (loss) on interest rate swap contracts, net of a gain of $74,835 recorded in the 2020 period in connection with the early termination of the swap agreements discussed below $ 75,653 (54,832)
Notes related to derivative contracts    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Gain (loss) on derivative contracts related to change in the value of equity derivative contracts related to Comcast common stock   $ 439,861
v3.21.1
DERIVATIVE CONTRACTS AND COLLATERALIZED INDEBTEDNESS - Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives (Details) - Interest Rate Swap - USD ($)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2020
Mar. 31, 2021
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount $ 1,500,000,000  
Cash received from interest rate swap unwind 74,835,000  
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2020, 3 Month LIBOR minus 0.1075%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Basis spread   0.1075%
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2025, Fixed 1.53%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 500,000,000
Company Pays   1.53%
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2022, Fixed 2.733%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 500,000,000
Company Pays   2.733%
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2025, Fixed 1.625    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 500,000,000
Company Pays   1.625%
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2026, Fixed 2.9155%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 750,000,000
Company Pays   2.9155%
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2026, Fixed 2.9025%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 750,000,000
Company Pays   2.9025%
Derivative Instrument Maturity Date 2025, Fixed 1.458%    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 500,000,000
Company Pays   1.458%
Derivative Instruments Maturing Date 2025, Fixed 1.53% and 1.625% [Member]    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount $ 1,000,000,000  
Derivative Instrument Notional Amount 2,850,000, 0.5185% Basis Spread | LIBOR    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative, Notional Amount   $ 2,850,000,000
v3.21.1
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Carrying Amount    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value $ 26,509,881 $ 26,562,705
Estimated Fair Value    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 27,250,461 27,811,011
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount | Credit facility debt | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 8,221,097 8,288,000
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount | Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 1,677,985 1,617,506
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount | Senior guaranteed notes and senior secured notes | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 8,068,088 8,066,796
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount | Senior notes | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 8,424,646 8,415,602
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Carrying Amount | Notes payable and supply chain financing | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 118,065 174,801
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Estimated Fair Value | Credit facility debt | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 8,280,500 8,350,188
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Estimated Fair Value | Secured Debt [Member] | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 1,753,986 1,692,724
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Estimated Fair Value | Senior guaranteed notes and senior secured notes | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 8,363,231 8,567,858
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Estimated Fair Value | Senior notes | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 8,734,561 9,024,990
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Estimated Fair Value | Notes payable and supply chain financing | CSC Holdings    
Liabilities:    
Debt, fair value 118,183 175,251
Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]    
Assets:    
Investment securities 2,324,308 2,250,854
Prepaid forward contracts | Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Assets:    
Derivative asset 0 45,653
Liabilities:    
Derivative liability (301,418) 293,506
Interest rate swap contracts | Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]    
Assets:    
Derivative asset 8,252 9,906
Liabilities:    
Derivative liability (183,845) 275,297
Money market funds | Fair Value Measured on a Recurring Basis | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]    
Assets:    
Money market funds $ 150,965 $ 50,236
v3.21.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2021    
Share based compensation expense $ 28,281 $ 27,946  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 184,811    
Carry Unit Plan | Restricted Stock Units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Weighted average fair value (in dollars per unit) $ 2.10   $ 3.89
Share based compensation expense $ 759 3,120  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost 44    
2017 LTIP | Stock options      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Share based compensation expense 24,223 20,349  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost 123,543    
2017 LTIP | Performance Shares      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Share based compensation expense 2,982 3,901  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost 60,675    
2019 LTIP | Restricted Stock      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Share based compensation expense 317 $ 576  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 549    
v3.21.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Carrying Unit Award Activity (Details) - Carry Unit Plan
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
$ / shares
shares
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value  
Balance at beginning of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 3.41
Vested weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares 3.80
Balance at end of period, weighted average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares $ 1.99
Restricted Stock Units  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]  
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares 6,875,000
Vested (in shares) | shares (5,375,000)
Ending balance (in shares) | shares 1,500,000
v3.21.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Stock Option Activity (Details) - USD ($)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share      
Exercised, weighted average exercise price per share (in dollars per share) $ 17.79    
Share based compensation expense $ 28,281,000 $ 27,946,000  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 184,811,000    
Risk-free interest rate 0.93%    
Expected life (in years) 6 years 2 months 4 days    
Dividend yield 0.00%    
Volatility 32.92%    
Grant date fair value $ 10.77    
2017 LTIP      
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share      
Beginning balance (in dollars per share) 25.52    
Granted (in dollars per share) 34.78    
Forfeited (in dollars per share) 26.10    
Ending balance (in dollars per share) 25.64    
Options exercisable (in dollars per share) $ 17.55    
Options outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years) 8 years 5 months 15 days 8 years 8 months 8 days  
Options exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years) 6 years 9 months 10 days    
Options outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value $ 256,796,000   $ 457,608,000
Options exercisable, Aggregate Intrinsic Value $ 47,070,000    
2017 LTIP | Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option [Member]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]      
Beginning balance (in shares) 37,062,146    
Granted (in shares) 409,478    
Option exercises 104,365    
Forfeited (in shares) (360,778)    
Ending balance (in shares) 37,006,481    
Options exercisable (in shares) 3,141,750    
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share      
Share based compensation expense $ 24,223,000 $ 20,349,000  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 123,543,000    
Expected time (in years) unrecogized compensation costs relating to share based awards will be recognized 2 years 6 months 21 days    
2017 LTIP | Performance Shares      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]      
Granted (in shares) 7,330,235    
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share      
Share based compensation expense $ 2,982,000 3,901,000  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 60,675,000    
Expected time (in years) unrecogized compensation costs relating to share based awards will be recognized 4 years 10 months 6 days    
Grant date fair value $ 10.65    
2019 LTIP | Restricted Stock      
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share      
Share based compensation expense $ 317,000 $ 576,000  
Share based compensation - Unrecognized deferred compensation cost $ 549,000    
v3.21.1
SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION - Fair Value Assumptions For Stock Options (Details)
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
$ / shares
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Risk-free interest rate 0.93%
Expected life (in years) 6 years 2 months 4 days
Dividend yield 0.00%
Volatility 32.92%
Grant date fair value $ 10.77
v3.21.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]    
Related party expense $ 2,001 $ 2,642
v3.21.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Revenue and Related Charges (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]    
Revenue $ 3,406 $ 3,488
Operating expenses:    
Programming and other direct costs (2,228) (2,189)
Other operating expenses, net (3,179) (3,941)
Operating expenses, net (5,407) (6,130)
Net charges (2,001) (2,642)
Capital Expenditures $ 10,621 $ 7,225
v3.21.1
AFFILIATE AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS - Amounts Due From and Due to Related Parties (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Mar. 31, 2021
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired 6,066,251   6,629,415
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock $ 503,645 $ 726,005  
Share based compensation expense 28,281 27,946  
Related party expense $ 2,001 2,642  
Stock options | 2017 LTIP      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross 409,478    
Share based compensation expense $ 24,223 20,349  
Restricted Stock | 2019 LTIP      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Share based compensation expense 317 576  
CSC Holdings      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Cash distributions to parent 501,000 720,350  
Intercompany settlement 745 (150,602)  
Cash distributions 501,000 $ 720,350  
Affiliates      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due to related parties and affiliates 12,698   $ 8,538
Affiliates | Other Related Party      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due from related parties and affiliates 3,795   4,262
Due to related parties and affiliates 1,226   600
Affiliates | Altice Management International      
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]      
Due to related parties and affiliates $ 11,472   $ 7,938
v3.21.1
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Details)
$ in Thousands
Apr. 06, 2021
USD ($)
North Carolina Assets | Subsequent Event  
Consideration transfered $ 310,000
v3.21.1
Label Element Value
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]  
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest $ 8,618,000