Integrated graphics and the HDMI connection usually work fine. I use that combination regularly, but not exclusively with a TV.
Intel seems to be a stickler for standards. The integrated graphics depends on a EDID from the monitor -- a configuration table the monitor sends to the VGA upon request. The VGA then sets screen size, frame rate etc. accordingly. The TV probably doesn't have an EDID - few do. At least at first, I think you need a true PC monitor to get a display, even from BIOS.
Jeff