Prepare brick fireplace for tile

I have a brick fireplace that I would like cover with would board panels. Can this be done? Any suggestions.

I want to cover top half of my brick fireplace with drywall, and install a 47" flatscreen tv. How can I attach the 2x4's to the brick to support the drywall and weight of tv (approx. 75 lbs). Lag screws? What's best? Thank you!

I am looking for info on how to make a brick fireplace smooth? How or what products do I need to make that possible without it cracking?

I want to get rid of an ugly brick fireplace in the easiest manner. Is it possible to just prime it and use venetian plaster paint ........ Or use a quick crete or sand topping over the brick and then prime and paint that?

I've been refinishing a fireplace/mantel, which has included stripping layers of paint off of the brick fireplace. After months of chemical applications, most of the paint is off, but there are still some stubborn remnants that just aren't coming out - they seem to have soaked into the brick, and...