All new video is now made in the wide screen mode. I don't think you can buy a LCD TV now that is not wide screen. Maybe a monitor but not a TV.

If you had one that was not wide screen, most of your programs will be letter boxed with a big black strip at the top and bottom.

Can a shield be put between the two?

I have one next to a fire place and the right side is about 10 or 12" away and I think it could go closer.

I guess you have a fire place converted to a wood stove.