If you must, match it to white of the mantle.

White for bricks and hearth.. Black for wall and built in cabinets.

Lose the screen...not needed and distracting.

You could try a brick/masonry stain to change the color without losing the texture. You can have it tinted to whatever color you like. I would mask off the grout lines though, unless you want them the same color as the brick. https://www.familyhardware.com/product/RustOleum-RockSolid-SemiTransparent-Concrete-Stain-Tint-Base-1-Gal/771985?

Why ? I think if painted it will look like ainted brick and what color would you like better . At least how it is is real, suits the surround and the fire screen . Of course seeing the whole room is how you actually get help her e. IMO the wall color is the issue.

When I moved in, the brick fireplace surround was painted white. Never looked great. When I renovated, I replaced the brick with black matte granite which looks great.

Consider a stone surround. You might be able to find reasonably-priced scraps at a local fabricator.

I wouldnt paint the brick. It will ruin the look of the fireplace. Cover with stone, if you must change it, or some type of tile.

Why would she "lose the firescreen"? If it's working fireplace it is useful. And even if not, it seems attractive.

Can you post a picture of that entire wall so that we can see the surrounding area to the fireplace in order to comment on wether the bricks should be painted or not and if painted what colour.

My living room is oak paneling (still 😕) as is the fireplace mantel and side trim. I also had a red brick surround and hearth. Everything was very dark. I painted the brick a cream color that I have used elsewhere in the house. It immediately brightened the room. I later painted the oak mantel and trim olive to break up all that oak. It was not a difficult paint job. I just used a good primer and two coats of acrylic latex paint. Mine is a working fireplace and I use it throughout the winter.

The wall color is actually much more taupe but photographed yellowy Carmel color. If I do anything I like the idea of tile or stone. Painting bookcases and changing wall color is an option. Right now our bedroom is attached by French doors to this “sitting area/office so it does give it a cohesive look. Also back of bookcases is oyster bay which is my bathroom color and the main color in the bedroom. I know brick is neutral but right now it’s the only thing red in the suite area and I thought it looked dated

I would leave the brick and paint the wall color. The wall color clashes with the brick, and it may be that is what is bothering you. I dont think the brick looks dated, but, I really dislike the wall color.