diff --git a/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py b/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py
index d89eeac5f1..a0cfb8d06f 100644
--- a/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py
+++ b/src/calibre/gui2/library/models.py
@@ -1021,6 +1021,13 @@ class BooksModel(QAbstractTableModel):  # {{{
         # we will get asked to display columns we don't know about. Must test for this.
         if col >= len(self.column_to_dc_map) or col < 0:
             return None
+        try:
+            return self.actual_data(index, role, col)
+        except Exception:
+            import traceback
+            traceback.print_exc()
+
+    def actual_data(self, index, role, col):
         if role == Qt.ItemDataRole.DisplayRole:
             rules = self.db_prefs['column_icon_rules']
             if rules: