The couple gained online fame due to a controversial dress worn at their wedding, which sparked a debate about its colors – black and blue or white and gold. However, behind the scenes, Grace was fearful for her life. Keir Johnston, the man behind the dress, pleaded guilty to endangering his wife’s life, admitting to strangling her in a terrifying ordeal. The 38-year-old, living on the Isle of Colonsay with wife Grace, is now remanded in custody until he is sentenced in June. The couple’s fame escalated after Grace’s mother wore the dress to their wedding, leading to a heated online discussion over its true colors.
Nicknamed ‘The Dress That Broke the Internet,’ the dress became a social media phenomenon when it was first shared on Tumblr by wedding guest Caitlin McNeill. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Ellen DeGeneres became involved in the color debate, with the latter even inviting the couple on her talk show. They were awarded $10,000 and a trip to Grenada. Despite the public attention, Grace was living in fear of her safety, with Johnston displaying a history of domestic abuse towards his wife. Grace disclosed that there was no permanent police presence on the remote Scottish island where they lived, leaving her feeling trapped.
Johnston’s abusive behavior climaxed when he turned on Grace in their home on March 6, 2022, saying, “Someone is going to die.” Despite Grace’s defiance against her husband’s demands, she found herself in a life-threatening situation after attending a job interview against his wishes. Johnston brutally assaulted her, causing severe bruising. He pinned her to the ground, strangled her, and threatened her life. Fortunately, Grace didn’t require medical treatment for her injuries. Johnston had previously denied allegations of nearly 11 years of serious domestic violence and coercive control towards his wife but pleaded guilty at the High Court. Grace lived in a constant state of fear, feeling trapped on the island with no permanent police presence.
Johnston’s disturbing behavior led to his remand in custody after Lady Drummond denied him bail, citing the serious and violent nature of the crime. He repeatedly strangled, injured, and endangered Grace’s life, creating terrifying and life-threatening circumstances for her. Sentencing is scheduled for June 6, awaiting further reports on the case. For confidential support, individuals can call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline on 0808 2000 247, or visit womensaid.co.uk for assistance. If a friend or family member has been lost due to fatal domestic abuse, AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) offers specialized and expert support by visiting www.aafda.org.uk.
The Dress That Broke the Internet not only triggered a global debate over colors but also unveiled a dark, terrifying reality in the lives of Grace and Keir Johnston. Their fame and fortune, gained from a controversial dress, was overshadowed by the fear, abuse, and violence lurking behind closed doors. The unfolding story serves as a stark reminder of the hidden complexities in relationships and the prevalence of domestic abuse, urging individuals to seek help and support in challenging situations.
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