What a great looking fireplace!

Honestly, I wouldn't paint it. You have a great color brick with great style. I feel like in 5 years the "painting the fireplace" fad will be over and future home buyers will be filled with regret on previous owner's decisions....unless it's a heinous brick to begin with, which yours is not.

I agree with Glo. I think the brick looks great and will always be a timeless centerpiece no matter how many times you want to change your style. However, if you are set on painting it, I wouldn't do gray, possibly a milky white.

It looks great.

It's nice as is. It is easier to pain than un-paint, so if you are unsure don't do it.

Personally I don’t care for the red brick, maybe tile over it or paint it a charcoal gray.