[Q] SMART TV ANDROID - TCL 55" 4K Ultra - How to ROOT topic

Hi Guys and Gals, I am new to the forums so please bear with me.
I just got a 4K TV with Android and I can't install Google play and any other .apk's on it. The stock browser does not allow downloads of this type. Accessing Google play on the browser works but no downloads/installation.
Side loading is a problem too for the media browser is limited only to Audio/Video/Images.
The stock "App Store" has limited apps and no other similar apps for web browsing, basically a walled garden.

My first question is, how can I install apk's on a seemingly limited android interface.? As I see it, I have 2 options:
1. "ROOT" it? - How would one go about rooting if I can't access anything.
2. Change the stock Android into a full fledged Android OS - How do I do this?

2nd Question, Is there a dedicated group that Hacks/Roots SMART TV Android interfaces? If so, can someone direct me to that forum or site? I've searched the forums and I've only encountered Hacking and rooting Android TV dongles/boxes and nothing on SMART TVs android interfaces.

I hope you guys could help me out. I really dislike "walled gardens" and would like to be able to utilize the full potential of this Flat screen.

Thank you.

Meisterfix

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TV Specs:
TCL E5690 55"
4k Resolution
Wifi ready / with LAN

Android Specs:
Android 4.2 Jellybean
2.2 GB ROM
Quad Core Processor
SD Card port (up to 32gb)
2 usb 2.0
1 usb 3.0
Keyboard mouse enabled