HDMI audio and playback bug/issue

Hi. Using M1 MacBook Pro 14 inch HDMI output on a LG HD TV. Streaming video via Safari using a VPN in back.

Audio Output in settings correctly set to LG, cable properly connected (clean video signal).

Issues: Audio not playing and video is weirdly fast forwarding without any inputs on the video playback control.

Things tried:

(1) Apple Music Playback via HDMI shows the same weird fast forwarding for audio, with faint audio signal.

(2) when HDMI cable is disconnected, all works smooth on the laptop.

Maybe cable is defect, but video signal was perfect. Will try to replace. Other ideas?

Thanks