radiator fan problems

my radiator fan isnt coming on.

so i shorted what i thought was the ECT coolant temp sensor. the fan still didnt come on.

so i umplugged the fan. i am measuring 14v to the fan module power wires.
but its not getting any signal to the purple control wire.

oddly, the temp gauge reads normal... cold when starting, med hot when driving. ...even if i disconnect the ECT temp sensor.

any ideas on what is going on here,,, like how to get the fan to run?