Apple TV 4K IR control issue with eARC

Apple tv is set up using a hdmi splitter and all fed into tv/soundbar e-arc hdmi port. This set up has worked no problem in the past and for about a month with the new Apple TV. It has just recently started automatically connecting to the IR remote control function. I have replaced all HDMI cords (no resolution) and made sure all setting on tv, soundbar, and Apple TV are correct. The only solution that worked about 1 week ago was to unplug everything and plug it all back in. That has worked, until again today the same issue started back up.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]