how can I watch itunes purchases on my samsung smart tv?

Actually, I forgot -- there is a way to do it with software. Just install a DLNA media server such as Serviio (serviio.org), which can transmit videos over your local network. When it's up and running it should show on your TV's list of sources and then you can display items on your computer on your TV set. Caution: this is not the easiest of programs to use, and is prone to generate error messages. Being frustrated with that I did a search on 'dlna mac' and found a sourceforge application Universal Media Server. It started off so well, and then ... . I'll just post this for now and report back if I manage to get good results from it later (one issue is that when you install it it offers the chance to choose favoured directories and says you can always do it later in the preferences, but there ain't no preferences available!).

Update: I've now noticed an icon for the application on the menubar. This lets me do things like specify default directories. It's still pretty quirky though: it generates error messages, some of which are valid and some of which are not (such as telling you that your video's format is not supported and then going ahead and playing it!). However, it seems to dump videos it couldn't play into a folder called 'transcode' and you can then play it from there. What a confusing application!

Wow! Well thank you for your input, I really appreciate your taking the time! I do already have one AppleTV unit but I just got a new upgraded Samsung Smart TV to replace my regular Samsung HDTV and I now put the older one in the bedroom. I was hoping to also move the AppleTV into the bedroom along with that TV if I can find a way to watch my iTunes content on the new Smart TV. But it looks at least so far that there isn't a real good solution for that! I just hate the idea of buying a second AppleTV! I know I can move it back & forth, but that's a hassle! Anyway thanks again and please let me know if you have any success!

Both DLNA servers are free, so it's worth trying them out.

Apple it would be great if you just developed an app so we could watch movies/tv we purchased from iTunes. I shouldn't have to connect one device to another in this day and time. Netflix did it, Amazon did it, HBO Go did it... falling behind the curve Apple.

You already know that Apple are not here, that these are user-to-user forums, and that Apple and iTunes Support are not here. If you want to leave feedback to Apple : http://www.apple.com/feedback/