I agree that it's each to their own. DD would've been around 2 when she started actually paying attention to TV shows rather than just having a little dance, watching a few seconds then nicking off to do something else. And even then it was only particular shows, mostly Hi-5, she hated Playschool and the Wiggles. But it never really was a big thing until she got hooked on Disney movies at about 4 or 5.

She mainly uses it to wind down before bed, and has a preference for quirky movies like Lemony Snicketts Series of Unfortunate Events or Corpse Bride these days (she's 9) and absolutely loves animal shows - we have just about the entire David Attenborough collection plus she likes Bondi Vet, RSPCA and that type of thing. Which I'm completely fine with and will often sit and watch with her. Heck even blood and guts doesn't bother her but she does get a little sad if an animal dies on the show.

So long as it's age appropriate and they still have all the other necessary interaction (outdoor play, social interaction etc) it's not really a bad thing. I don't think eating the main meal of the day in front of the TV is a good thing though - for us that's our chance to sit and talk about our day, teach DD proper table manners etc.