I am trying to log into my Apple TV and the verification code continues to get sent to my cell phone but there is no place on the Apple TV to put the code in

Put the code in the password field, next to the password.

If your password is "pass" and the code is "1234" type "pass1234" in the password field.

lauretta112 wrote:

yes, i tried that. I know my password is correct because i can log on my phone and laptop

but everytime I try to put my password with the code the reply is "incorrect password"

my AppleTV is up to date, but is also 8 years old. could that be an issue?

Unlikely.

Make sure there are no spaces between the password and the code, and make sure you aren't taking too long to enter the code as it does have a short life span. Best to have the password entered already before requesting the code.