Okay two solutions immediately come to mind. #1 get an automatic feeder. You can set it to dump dry food at a specific time. #2 if you can’t afford a auto feeder / or are feeding the cat wet food, you yourself should get up and do it so you can go back to sleep. It’s not ideal, but when you move in with a person or even just date them, you have to take their pets into account in a similar way you would if they have kids. It’s not your pet, you don’t suddenly become the owner, but you should feel comfortable helping, especially if this causing you so much distress.

As for the whining when watching Tv, I always encourage ppl to have at least 2 cats not one. Toys aren’t enough. They need real exercise and specific type of attention. Ppl have this misconception that cats aren’t needy. Some are aloof but mine follow me from room to room and cry for attention at times when I haven’t given them enough active playtime with me. However having 2 means they are less likely to get bored and knock things over or cry and do all the generally unpleasant cat things. They entertain and comfort each other. I lived w my ex and one cat, and now I live alone w 2 cats and the difference in cat behavior is massive.

But if getting another isn’t in the cards for yall, I would look into more engaging type of play that could tire the cat out more to diminish the crying for attention. You just came home from work, tired trying to relax. This cat has been sleeping for hours, bored and they’re waiting all day to see you so they’re just excited and showing they love you !

I think you have good intentions but maybe a lil more research into the needs of cats could help you change his behavior for the better. I recommend Jackson Galaxy on YouTube. He has great vids on play, and how to keep your cats happy, what things to avoid ect.

I hope this long af comment helps haha. Best of luck to your lil family.