v3.10.0.1
Earnings or Loss per Share (Schedules) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2018
Jun. 30, 2017
Jun. 30, 2018
Jun. 30, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]        
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations $ 668.7 $ (761.3) $ (696.3) $ (1,126.8)
Net earnings from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests (36.1) (4.8) (42.2) (39.8)
Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders $ 632.6 $ (766.1) $ (738.5) $ (1,166.6)
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding (Liberty Global Shares):        
Basic (in shares) 788,815,021 853,612,217 798,215,803 871,936,668
Incremental shares attributable to the assumed exercise of outstanding options, SARs [and PSARs] and the release of [restricted shares and] share units upon vesting (treasury stock method) (in shares) 3,105,000      
Diluted (in shares) 791,920,021 853,612,217 798,215,803 871,936,668