E.W. Scripps Company Reports Significant Revenue Decline and Net Loss in Q3 2025

The E.W. Scripps Company reported a significant decline in financial performance for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2025, as detailed in its latest 10-Q filing. Operating revenues for the quarter totaled $525.9 million, a decrease of 18.6% from $646.3 million in the same period last year. For the nine months ended September 30, 2025, revenues fell by 10.7% to $1.59 billion compared to $1.78 billion in 2024. The company experienced a notable drop in political advertising revenue, which decreased by $126 million in the third quarter and $165 million year-to-date, reflecting the absence of a major election cycle.

In terms of profitability, Scripps reported an operating income of $37.6 million for the third quarter, down from $121.8 million a year earlier. The net loss attributable to shareholders was $49 million, compared to a profit of $33 million in the same quarter of 2024. The company attributed these declines to reduced political advertising, lower distribution revenues, and increased costs associated with sports rights fees. Total operating expenses also decreased, but not enough to offset the revenue decline, leading to a net loss for the period.

Strategically, Scripps has been active in restructuring its operations, which included a significant reorganization announced in January 2023 aimed at enhancing efficiency. This restructuring has resulted in a reduction of over 200 jobs and incurred restructuring costs of $2.7 million in the third quarter of 2025. Additionally, the company has engaged in several asset transactions, including the sale of its West Palm Beach television station building for $40 million and agreements to sell other stations, such as WFTX in Fort Myers and WRTV in Indianapolis, for $40 million and $83 million, respectively.

Operationally, Scripps reported a decrease in its Local Media segment revenues, which fell by 27% in the third quarter, primarily due to a sharp decline in political advertising. However, core advertising revenue saw a slight increase of 1.8% in the same period. The Scripps Networks segment experienced a marginal revenue decline of 0.4% in the third quarter, attributed to lower ratings in key demographics, although connected TV revenue showed growth. The company’s total assets as of September 30, 2025, were reported at $5.09 billion, down from $5.20 billion at the end of 2024.

Looking ahead, Scripps anticipates that its ongoing restructuring efforts and strategic asset sales will position the company for improved performance in the future. The company has also established a new joint venture with Gray Media and others to enhance data delivery services, which may provide additional revenue streams. Despite the current challenges, Scripps remains focused on leveraging its media assets and expanding its digital presence to adapt to changing market conditions.