I would consider having the T.V. mounted with hardware that allows it to be pulled forward a few inches as an easy solution.

ok. about that mantle. what is it? it does't look like real wood (at least in the pic). is it? Don't know what you paid for it, but for 40 bucks or so, you can get a 2x6 or 4x8 wood beam (fir) at the big stores, cut it to size and stain it yourself. float it with a few lag bolts in the back set into the studs.

the tv does set a back a bit. It's set back on this pic, but so is the fireplace

or do it something like this with a mantle that goes to the ground.

just build up the recess and bring it forward. do you plan on using brick up top too?

consider painting that beadboard that's recessed a darker color. black, gray navy,,,whatever colors you have in the room, pick the darkest shade.

Thank you so much. I'm returning the mantel and plan to do something similar to this. I really appreciate the feedback!!!!

I like the mantle. I’d build the wall out. It would be simple to do just using 2x4s and then covering w the beadboard...you would also then be able to fish all the wires behind the build out.