Keir Johnston, the Scottish man associated with the black and blue dress that went viral in 2015, recently pleaded guilty in Glasgow High Court to attacking his wife, Grace. The couple became famous after a photo of a dress that appeared black and blue to some viewers but white and gold to others caused a sensation online. The Johnstons even appeared on Ellen DeGeneres’ talk show to discuss the dress. However, their partnership took a dark turn as Keir was accused of engaging in domestic violence against his wife over an 11-year period, culminating in a violent incident in March of 2022.
According to reports, Grace Johnston felt trapped on the remote Isle of Colonsay where the couple lived, as there was no permanent police presence. Prior to the attack, Grace had ignored Keir’s demands not to attend a job interview on the mainland. On the day of the incident, Keir was drinking in a pub and sent messages to Grace, expressing his dissatisfaction with her lack of support. When Grace returned home, Keir informed her that he was going to leave her, and subsequently pinned her to the ground and strangled her, causing her to fear for her life.
A witness who heard Grace scream attempted to intervene and pull Keir away from her, but he returned with a knife, threatening to “finish her off.” Grace managed to send text messages to friends seeking help and called authorities, informing them that her husband was trying to kill her. Judge Lady Drummond remanded Johnston in custody until his sentencing, acknowledging the frightening circumstances that Grace had endured. Johnston is set to appear in court on June 6 for his sentencing.
The case of Keir Johnston highlights the serious issue of domestic violence, and serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help in such situations. For individuals in the United States experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline can be contacted at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). The attack on Grace Johnston underscores the need for resources and support for individuals facing abusive relationships, and the significance of taking action to prevent and address domestic violence.
The shocking nature of the attack perpetrated by Keir Johnston against his wife Grace demonstrates the danger that victims of domestic violence can face, even in seemingly idyllic settings. Johnston’s violent actions towards his wife, which escalated to a life-threatening level, underscore the urgent need for effective intervention and support systems for victims of domestic abuse. It is crucial for individuals in abusive situations to reach out for help and to access the resources and assistance available to them.
The case involving Keir Johnston serves as a sobering reminder of the prevalence and seriousness of domestic violence, and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and families. The fact that a seemingly ordinary couple who gained fame over a viral photo could be entangled in such a harrowing situation highlights the complex and insidious nature of domestic abuse. Johnston’s guilty plea and forthcoming sentencing signal a small measure of accountability for his actions, but also underscore the ongoing need for greater awareness, prevention, and support in combating domestic violence.
