Keir Johnston, a 38-year-old man who gained notoriety after a viral internet debate over the color of a dress in 2015, has pleaded guilty to assaulting his wife, Grace Johnston. The incident took place in 2022 on the Isle of Colonsay, Scotland. During the assault, Johnston endangered his wife’s life by pinning her to the ground and strangling her.

The couple, who previously appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres show due to their fleeting fame from the viral dress photo, had a disturbing altercation that left Grace in fear for her life. It was reported that Keir had been drinking prior to the incident, which escalated following an argument. Despite not seeking medical treatment, Grace sustained severe bruising and told the court she believed her husband intended to kill her.

The court highlighted the distressing nature of the attack as well as Grace’s vulnerable situation living in a remote area without permanent police presence. Keir Johnston has been remanded in custody and is awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for June 6 at the Glasgow High Court. Lady Drummond, presiding over the case, underscored the seriousness of the circumstances describing them as “absolutely terrifying.”